START WITH ART: The Elf-Hill

Good morning! We begin each day by examining a piece of art from history. Today’s artwork is pictured below. Take a look, then read the questions to the students/children in your life and watch how starting the day with art can ignite creativity and critical thinking!

Title: The Elf-Hill 

Artist: Harry Clarke 

Date: 1916

Medium: Ink, graphite, watercolour gouache and glazes with bodycolour highlights on paper

Dimensions: 41.4 x 23.1 cm

Start with Art Questions:

• The Elf-hill is a fairy tale about a feast held by the Elf King, in his mound, for the Gnome Chief of Norway and his two sons. The Elf King's daughters, paraded before the guests as potential brides, display their talents. What do you suppose are the daughter's talents? 

• What words would you use to describe the elf girls? One person described them as "woven of mist and moonshine." Is that a good description? 

• Describe the symmetry, color, and patterns in this artwork. 

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