Creating an Art Space That Inspires Creativity and Exploration

When planning an art area, consider the layout, furniture, storage, and materials that make activities easy to access and enjoyable for children. From choosing child-sized furniture to organizing supplies and displaying finished artwork, thoughtful details can make a big difference.

Accessible Furniture

Choose adjustable easels and accessible shelving to accommodate different heights and working positions. Keep art materials within easy reach and allow enough space between furnishings for children with limited mobility to move comfortably, access supplies, and participate in activities independently.

Connections Easel

Encourage Independence

Use open shelving, labelled bins, and clear containers to keep art supplies visible and within reach. Add picture labels or clear symbols to help children identify materials and find what they need. Group similar items together and create designated spaces for paper, paint, brushes, glue, and other essentials. Accessible, well-organized storage encourages children to make their own choices and participate in cleanup.

Showcase Children's Creations

Make room to display artwork using wall-mounted boards, Community Playthings shelf backing and clear covers, or hanging lines. Keep displays at children's eye level and change them regularly to celebrate their work and give them opportunities to revisit their creations.

Take Art Outdoors

Extend art activities beyond the classroom with outdoor easels, storage, and art tables that create dedicated spaces for hands-on exploration. Outdoor art areas give children opportunities to work with different materials, explore nature, and take inspiration from their surroundings. The Outlast Art Studio is designed for year-round outdoor use, making it easy to keep art experiences going through changing seasons and weather.

Outlast Art Studio Collection

Bring Nature into the Art Area

Include natural and found materials such as leaves, pinecones, branches, stones, and shells. Organize these items in baskets or trays so children can easily incorporate them into their projects. Rotate materials throughout the year to reflect changing seasons and interests.

CLICK HERE to see full Creative Arts collection.

Looking for a ready-made list of art supplies for your toddler, preschool or school-age classroom? 

CLICK HERE to explore our Startup Lists and find the essentials for your space.