How Mary Cassatt revolutionized portrait art.

Mary Cassatt was a revolutionary artist known for her poignant and intimate portraits of mothers and children.

Cassatt was born in Pennsylvania in 1844 but spent most of her professional life in France, where she became an integral part of the Impressionist movement.

She was one of the few American artists to exhibit with the French Impressionists. That’s a testament to her exceptional talent and unique perspective. 

Her work often depicted the private lives and bonds of women, which captured moments of tenderness and affection with a sensitivity that remains unmatched.

Here’s why Cassatt is one of our 35 masters:

• Her ability to capture the emotional depth and everyday beauty of mother-child relationships.
• Her innovative use of pastels and gentle brushstrokes give her paintings a soft and dreamlike quality.
• The way she portrayed the quiet dignity and strength of women in their domestic environments.

Your students will be inspired by Cassatt’s approach to art. They will learn to appreciate the subtle beauty in daily life and the importance of emotional connections in their artwork.

In short, here’s what Cassatt can teach:

• The art of creating intimate and emotionally resonant portraits.
• How to use soft colors and delicate lines to convey warmth and tenderness.
• The value of observing and capturing everyday moments with sensitivity and care.

These lessons will help students see art as a reflection of their own lives and experiences. And that’ll encourage them to express their emotions and observations through their creations.

Here’s how you can integrate Cassatt into your art curriculum:

• Introduce Cassatt through engaging slides and music to capture your students’ attention and set the stage for creativity.
• Use the self-guided technique packets to help students understand Cassatt’s methods and prepare them for their art projects.
• Turn your classroom into an art studio where students can create portraits inspired by Cassatt’s techniques.

By studying Mary Cassatt, your students will not only learn about art. They’ll also develop a deeper appreciation for the quiet beauty of everyday life.

Check out our Mary Cassatt student gallery to see what students have already produced after studying Cassatt.