gray-white background

Rembrandt Van Rijn Art Lessons

Art Projects and Curriculum

Delve into the timeless genius of Rembrandt van Rijn with our engaging comprehensive art lesson plans. Uncover Rembrandt's masterful use of light and shadow, along with his expressive brushwork that brings depth and emotion to his portraits and historical scenes. Our dynamic lessons inspire students to explore and emulate Rembrandt's techniques, fostering a deep appreciation for the legendary Dutch painter.

Student Artwork Showcase

Style

Realism

Media

Oil

Heritage

Dutch

Gender

Male

About Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Rembrandt van Rijn was a Dutch painter and printmaker. Born in 1606, he is widely considered one of the greatest artists of all time. Rembrandt was a master of light and shadow, and his works are characterized by their use of dramatic lighting and strong, emotional compositions. He was known for his portraits, landscapes, and biblical scenes, which often convey a sense of realism, intimacy, and psychological depth. Rembrandt was a prolific artist, producing hundreds of paintings, etchings, and drawings over the course of his career.

Despite his fame and success, he lived much of his life in relative poverty, and his works often reflect his struggles with personal and financial hardships. Today, Rembrandt's works can be found in major museums around the world, and he remains one of the most famous and beloved artists of all time.

Rembrandt Van Rijn Art Lesson, Activity & Projects for Elementary

With the aid of a flashlight, the children will understand Rembrandt van Rijn’s special technique of painting highlights and shadow. This special “Rembrandt Lighting” was carried over to their own artwork in special Dutch landscapes…and windmills! Be sure to click through the student masterpieces at the top of this page.

Art Lessons for Rembrandt Van Rijn

View the Artist Trailer

Art Elements Taught

Space, Value

Art Activity Emphasis

Dutch Landscapes, Highlighting and Shadows, Perspective

Vocabulary Learned

composition, etching, highlight, portrait, profile, shadow

Student Art Supplies

Chalk, Crayon, Paint Swabs
gray-white background

How the Art Program Works:

1. Assembly

Introducing the Masters—Multi-Purpose Room or Classroom (20-45 minutes)

2. Student Worksheets

Learning from the Masters—Classroom (15-30 minutes)

3. Student Art Projects

Working with the Masters—Classroom (50-60 minutes)

Real Reviews from Real Teachers & Parents

See Why Everyone Loves Meet The Masters

I had a parent stop me in the halls and express how much her children loved the curriculum. She was overjoyed that formal art education was included in our school day and that it was a curriculum that challenged the older elementary students, and was able to be done by the younger ones as well. She had a first and fourth grader at the time. I also had an aide who was in the classroom with me while I was teaching tell me how much she loved that art history portion of the curriculum. She said that she wasn’t much of an artist, and as a kid she dreaded craft time, but that the inclusion of the art history would have made all the difference to her as a child. I have students who have complained about going to a good behavior activity (which are always super fun!) because it meant she would have to miss art that week!

Read the case study for this school district.

Kristina Franklin
Art Teacher, Fruitvale School District, Bakersfield CA
gray-white background

More Artists on the Same Track

Buy a track of 7 artists and teach all year long.

All tracks include:

  • Implementation guide to manage scheduling, volunteers & communication
  • Multi-level, age-appropriate curriculum for all seven artists in this track
  • Engaging PowerPoint visuals that include vocabulary, art concepts & music
  • Timed, illustrated & scripted lessons perfect for teachers or volunteers
  • Hands-on technique worksheets, art project details, art prints, games & props

*Art supplies and teacher/volunteer training DVDs can be added to your order.