What is Process Art?

Dec 10

I wondered this a few years ago while scrolling through Pinterest for kids art ideas. The more I dove into the topic, the more I loved the idea of it. Not only do kids learn so much while creating process art, in my opinion, it gives us all a reason to step back and bring more joy into the creation process.

Process art is “art that’s all about the making and the doing, rather than the finished product.” -Meri Cherry

process art niantic connecticut — Invitation: White paint, plungers and giant paper

Consider how kids are taught art in the classroom. By having the students create the exact same project, it results in the same exact pieces of art to bring home. But what if we gave our kids a little more freedom in an art space?

Process art starts with some art materials and, in my experience, can either be an invitation to create or there is some instruction and guidance from a teacher. Either way, however, both options lead to a less specific outcome. An invitation to create is providing materials in an exciting way to boost the artist’s creativity allowing them to imagine and explore and create on their own terms.

Then there are the projects you instruct and provide the guidance. But outcome is still literally in the artists hands. They may turn it into something different. They may find working with one tool or material can achieve a different outcome and go for that.

Now while they create, what is happening? Why are process art teachers so passionate about it?

Here are some benefits of process art: