Art: A World of Words: First Paintings--First Words in 12 Languages

by Doris Kutschbach

This beautiful introduction to art and language features some of the world’s most beloved masterpieces as it entices children to discover art, language, objects, and colors. First pictures, first words—this familiar and time-proven book concept for young children is incorporated brilliantly in this multi-lingual art book. The works of Renoir, Kandinsky, Dürer, Rousseau, Franz Marc, and others are featured in beautiful full-page reproductions. Opposite each image is a word that helps describe the painting—for instance "play," "bunny," "horse," "train." The words are presented in twelve different languages, each with their phonetic pronunciation. Organized thematically, the book touches on a child’s everyday experience through simple and comforting images that will invite further What are the men playing with? What does the bunny’s fur feel like? How many teddy bears do you see? Together adults and children can explore great works, planting the seeds for an appreciation of the world’s masterpieces and the words to describe them.

Genres: Art

160 pages, Hardcover

First published April 25, 2014

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Works of art are paired with common first words in 12 different languages. I don't think I've seen another book quite like this. The focus is not on the fine art per se (young children don't care who a painting is by), but on first words -- from body parts (Salvador Dali lips, a humorous nose by Edward Lear, to Michelangelo's iconic hands from the Sistine ceiling) to actions (play with Cassatt's children in the sand, swing with Fragonard, run with Greek athlete across a vase).
A neat idea. Would like to see how children respond.

(although I'm not so sure about the smiling spider for happy or Archimoboldo's fruit face for Autumn, even though Autumn is the title.)