Natural paint brushes

Now that the Buffalo weather warming up and we are able to get outside, I wanted to share with you a fun art activity that is also so important here at the museum - painting! Carrousel horses aren't called 'painted ponies' for no reason! The vibrant colors and orientate painting on the horses are what attract riders.

​Though - I'll let you in on a little secret... next time you are on a carrousel horse, check both sides of your horse. You will probably notice that the side facing out is much more decorative. It is for that reason they are so much more decorative - to attract riders! This is called the "romance" side. 

Now, I am not saying that carrousel horses are painted with sticks and leaves - but did you know that you can make your own interesting paint brushes with just those materials and a bit of string? The different textures found in nature can create some very interesting marks and it is fun to explore and collect materials you think will Make for interesting paint brushes. They can be similar, such as all blades of grass, or all one type of leaf. Or they can different and combine smaller sticks, petals, and other objects. ​

You will need

Some string, a sturdy stick that is not to big around, an assortment of natural items you think will make for interesting marks, and some creativity!

Share your natural brush creations (and their creations!) with us using the hashtag #HCFM on social media!