Blue Like the Tang Dynasty: A Still Life Painting Lesson Inspired by Chinese Art
Y'all. I have never seen a classroom this hyped over pottery.
But when you throw in some ancient Chinese art, a limited palette of bold blues, and a teapot with a bird on top? Suddenly, it’s less "art class" and more "watch out, we’re making a masterpiece."
This upper elementary still life painting project was inspired by Tang Dynasty ceramics (yes, that dynasty—the one known for its graceful porcelain and swoon-worthy patterns). Before we even picked up a brush, we dove into a little art history.
A bold blue still life with a patterned background and a bird perched on the teapot.
A Quick Tang Dynasty Crash Course (For Kids… and Teachers Who Need a Refresher)
The Tang Dynasty ruled China from 618 to 907 CE, and they were kind of a big deal in the art world. Think:
● Bright white ceramics
● Beautiful cobalt blue designs (which later influenced Ming Dynasty porcelain)
● Elegant shapes like teapots, vases, and cups
Basically, if Target had an ancient China collection, it would’ve been sold out. We looked at photos of real Tang artifacts and noticed the repeating patterns, florals, and bold contrast.
A delicate blue vase still life with a bird perched and soft white space around it.
What We Did (and How You Can Do It Too)
Step 1: Sketch It Out
Students started with a light pencil sketch of a still life featuring teapots, mugs, pitchers, and the occasional sassy little bird.
A light pencil sketch begins the Tang Dynasty still life project.
Step 2: Add the Blue
We used blue tempera paint in various shades—from soft sky blues to deep indigos. Students experimented with layering and brushstroke techniques to create value and texture.
A blue-outlined sketch shows the start of painting details.
Step 3: Details, Details!
They painted in floral patterns and background designs inspired by Tang motifs. No outlines here—just paint and pattern and bold confidence.
The still life takes shape with layered blues and added depth.
Step 4: Celebrate the Mess
We worked on messy art tables, used up nearly every drop of blue in the building, and made sure every student walked out with stained fingers and a piece they were proud of.
A finished Tang-inspired still life sits beside brushes and blue paint containers.
Art Concepts Covered
● Value (light and dark with one color!)
● Pattern and repetition
● Still life composition
● Cultural appreciation and art history
A richly painted blue vase still life filled edge-to-edge with Tang-inspired patterns.
If You Wanna Try This Too…
Here’s what you’ll need:
● Blue tempera paint (lots of it)
● Watercolor or mixed media paper
● Printed examples of Tang Dynasty ceramics
● Optional: baby wipes for quick cleanup
A completed blue china still life displayed on a messy desk with paint and brushes.
Resources to Keep the Learning Going
● Cow Skull Art Lesson — Another culturally inspired favorite, with a fun dice-roll twist that’s perfect for centers or early finishers.
● Intro to Art for Kids: An Art History Workbook — Great for reinforcing what they learned, with visuals and vocabulary that make ancient art approachable.
A whimsical teapot with a bird perched happily on the spout.
Final Thoughts
This project was more than just paint on paper. It was a way for students to see that artists existed long before Instagram—and they were making work that still inspires us today.
Plus, I’m not saying this project turned them into mini museum curators… but I did overhear one kid say, "This is like, from the olden days—but actually cool."
And really, that’s what we’re after.
A completed still life rests on a desk surrounded by brushes and blue paints.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
Expand Creativity with Symmetry Drawing Worksheets
Dive deeper into symmetry with our specially designed symmetry drawing worksheets. These engaging activities challenge students to complete intricate designs while honing their understanding of symmetrical balance. Perfect for classrooms or homeschool settings, these worksheets make learning symmetry both fun and artistic.
Shop Workbooks on Amazon
Affiliate Disclosure: Party in the Art Room is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on this site, a commission may be earned.
Get to know Amanda Koonlaba!
Hi! I’m Amanda. Teaching children to be creative thinkers is my greatest joy. I’m here to help you bring that same joy to your classroom.
This guide is packed with 25 ideas for using art to teach math and ELA. It’s arts integration for the win!
I want all students to feel successful in the art room, so I created a standards-based Daffodil Collage lesson to do just that! The lesson includes an artist study, student reflection, and more, so push your artists to their full potential.
