Art on the Move Exhibit

There are many ways for an artist to make their work seem like it is moving. For example, colors, shapes, and lines can show action. Read about these methods and look for them in the art below.

• Color - Warm colors (reds, yellows, and oranges) pop out and can feel energetic. Cool colors (blues, greens, and purples) seem quiet and calm.

• Lines - Diagonal (slanted) and curved lines show action. Vertical (up and down) lines feel strong and balanced. Horizontal (side to side) lines seem quiet or peaceful.

• Shape - Shapes that are close together, overlap or repeat seem full of energy. Shapes that are far apart look calm.

• Brushwork - How an artist paints or draws can suggest movement. Loose, short, overlapping brush strokes can show action.

• Poses - Bodies or objects that are curved seem to be in motion even if they seem frozen in time.

Click the images to see each artwork and read more.

What's Next?

Today you looked at art that may have seemed to move in one way or another. Some artists use lines, colors, shapes, or all of these to suggest movement. As you look at art elsewhere, think, “Is the artist trying to make it seem as if something is moving?”

Before You Go

Which artwork would you hang in your room if you could?

If you created an art exhibit, what kind of art would you include? Why?

Did you see an artwork that you think another friend or family member might like to see? Which one? Send them a link!

Check out the links below for more art-inspired content.

What is an Exhibit?

Learn more about how an exhibit is put together and what components make up an exhibit.

Coming Soon! Let's Make Art

Get creative with these activities inspired by works in the exhibit.

Books and Resources

Explore the world of art more with these resources for all ages.