Tissue Paper Prints
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Tissue paper prints are a classic process art activity. The project begins with water and colorful tissue paper. Water painted on top of construction paper creates an image that appears as water soaks thru the top layer of tissue paper and bleeds into the paper below. I thought the children would like to experiment with this process.
Many techniques we introduce to children are from past work done with other children. Often traditional techniques blend into new work to achieve the desired effect.
After gathering the necessary materials, I set up a table for the project. In the classroom, I work with small groups to be present for the children and witness how they approach their work. At the beginning of the project, two children decided to explore the materials. They sat down, and I showed the children the tissue paper print process. The technique is simple, lay down some tissue paper scraps and paint them with water. Keep repeating the process until you are satisfied with the amount of coverage on your paper.
When introducing a new creative technique, sometimes I give brief instructions and share options for utilizing the material. I do not always give instruction. It depends on how the children respond to the materials. Another factor is the questions they ask about the material. I prefer children take the material and explore it and see what they can create and what possibilities the material holds.
The children worked slow, adding one small piece of tissue paper at a time. They moved the wet brush over the colorful tissue to make it bleed. After a bit of time, two more children decided to join the project. These children watched for a moment as the other children worked. The new arrivals had a different plan. After placing a few pieces of tissue on their work and adding water, they decided to try a new technique. The new arrivals cut many pieces of colorful tissue. Next, they layered them in different directions and on top of each other before adding water.
Children often observe other children and learn new creative techniques. The children also watch the educators looking for clues on learning a new skill. Once the children learn a new skill, a period of experimentation begins where they attempt to take the skill and make it their own. Children are open to exploring the possibilities of an acquired skill. Exploring a new skill helps children create a base of knowledge and confidence.
One of the children who started their project earlier saw the new arrivals adding more tissue layers to their work and tried the same technique. Soon everyone at the table was adding many layers of colorful tissue paper to create their prints. Observing the process, I wanted to tell the children that so many layers would make a dark impression. I decided to keep quiet and then started wondering why I felt the need to say anything. It does not matter what the result is. The children enjoyed exploring different techniques and the three simple materials.
When observing the children, educators need to be careful. We can become distracted by our opinion of how a project should develop. Instead of being in the moment, we focus on the result. The magic and joy of life are in the moment where a project’s greatness lies no matter what the outcome is.
Many other children came to explore the tissue paper and water technique. Each child created a unique design on paper. The beauty of the work is they did it their way. The children were happy to be together and laughed, talked, and experimented with two kinds of paper and water. What could be better?