Artistic Pursuits

Artistic Pursuits combines art history and appreciation with hands-on skill building. Each lesson studies a real artwork, then guides students through creating their own art using similar techniques. It's the curriculum that makes art feel like a real subject, not just craft time.

Pros

• Teaches real art skills, not just crafts
• Art appreciation and history woven in naturally
• Minimal supplies needed (mostly basic drawing/painting materials)
• Self-directed — kids can work independently
• Beautiful reproductions of famous artworks
• Covers K through high school

Cons

• Text-heavy for younger levels
• Some art supply costs on top of book price
• Pacing can be slow for enthusiastic artists
• Less structured than some parents prefer
• Limited online support or community

Best For

• Families who want art as a legitimate academic subject
• Kids interested in both art history and hands-on creating
• Homeschoolers who want a Charlotte Mason-style art program
• Self-directed students who can follow written instructions

Skip This If...

• You want step-by-step video art instruction
• Your young kids can't read the lessons independently (parent will need to help)
• You want a quick 15-minute art activity, not a full lesson
• You're looking for digital/graphic art instruction

The Verdict

Artistic Pursuits is the rare art curriculum that treats art as both a skill and a subject worth studying. Your kids will learn about Monet AND learn to paint light on water. It requires more investment than pulling up a YouTube art tutorial, but the education is incomparably deeper.