Floating Ice

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella, and I'm so excited to show you a really cool painting today! It's called Floating Ice, and it's by an artist named George Bellows. He painted it a long, long time ago – in 1910! nn

(Pause for questions. Encourage kids to ask anything they're curious about.) nn

Imagine a really cold winter day. See all these blues and grays? They show us how cold and icy the river is. The artist used lots of different shades of blue and gray to make the ice look like it's moving and floating on the water. Can you see the ice? What shapes does it make? nn

(Pause for questions and observations from the children.) nn

Look closely! See those little white bits? That's snow on the ground. And see those dark lines? Those are trees! The artist used his paintbrush to make the snow look fluffy and the trees look strong. He even painted some tiny people near the river. Can you spot them? What do you think they are doing? nn

(Pause for questions and discussion. Encourage children to point out details.) nn

This painting isn't just about a pretty winter scene. It shows us how people lived a long time ago. It shows us a river, maybe the Hudson River, frozen over. It shows us a little boat. It makes us think about how cold and beautiful nature can be. What do you think about this painting? What feelings does it give you? nn

(Pause for responses and further discussion. Encourage children to share their thoughts and feelings.) nn

So, next time you see a cold winter day, remember Floating Ice! It shows us how artists can capture the beauty of nature, even when it's cold and snowy. Isn't it amazing what artists can do with paint? Thank you for joining me today! Do you have any more questions? nn

(Open the floor for final questions and allow ample time for children to ask and explore their curiosity.)