Jack Whitten Inspired Art Project

This Jack Whitten-inspired art project is fun and creative collage art project that lets kids explore color and pattern. Using paint, cardboard, and a scraping technique, kids will have a blast creating vibrant, textured artwork while learning about one of the most important voices in modern American art.

This project is perfect for all ages—simple enough for younger kids but open-ended for older children to explore more complex designs. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce abstract art, texture techniques, and Black history in a fun, hands-on way.

Who Was Jack Whitten?

Jack Whitten (1939–2018) was a Black American abstract artist known for his innovative use of materials and techniques. Whitten believed that art could capture the energy and feeling of the moment, and he experimented with ways to make paintings feel alive.

In the 1970s, Whitten started using unconventional tools like rakes, combs, and squeegees to scrape paint across the canvas in single, sweeping gestures. His work became known for its bold colors, layered textures, and unique surfaces.

One of his standout works, “Cherrypicker” (1990), features striking scraped textures and bold color contrasts, showing how movement and rhythm can be expressed through paint. Whitten’s work often reflected his thoughts on history, science, and Black identity, making his art not just visually captivating but also deeply meaningful.

Why You’ll Love This Art Project

• Hands-on and sensory-friendly – The scraping technique is super fun and lets kids get creative with textures.
• Focuses on color and movement – Perfect for talking about how colors interact and how movement can be shown in art.
• Inspired by a modern master – Introduces kids to abstract art and Black artists who shaped American art.
• Easy set-up, big results – With just paint, cardboard, and some creativity, you’ll have a gallery-worthy piece!

Materials You’ll Need

• Cardboard
• Washable paint (choose four bold colors inspired by Whitten’s “Cherrypicker”)
• White cardstock x2
• Tray
• Scissors
• Glue

How to Create a Jack Whitten Inspired Art Project

1. Cut cardboard into four credit card shaped pieces. You will use these to scrape the paint across the paper.

2. Take a pice of white cardstock. Fold it in half and cut along the line. Fold each piece in half and cut along the line. You should end up with four equal sized rectangles.

3. Place one rectangle into a tray. At the top pour of red and white paint. Use one of the credit card sized cardboard pieces to scrape the paint in any direction you choose. Continue using another sheet of paper and blue and white paint. On another card using green and white paint. On the final piece use black and white paint. Set them aside to dry.

4. Once dry, cut each rectangle into strips and then into small equal sized squares.

5. On the next sheet of cardbstock, start to glue the squares in random order. Change the direction of the paint between squares along with color. Continue until the entire sheet is covered. Be sure not to over lap the squares otherwise you will not have enough to cover the entire page. Its better to leave small white spaces in the middle than to have a white space at the end.

6. Trim the ends if any are hanging off. Keep these pieces and glue them in the small small spaces in the middle of the page.

Incorporating This Project into Black History Month Learning

This project offers a perfect opportunity to talk about how Black artists like Jack Whitten have influenced modern art. His experimental techniques show how art doesn’t have to follow traditional rules—it can be as bold and innovative as you want it to be.

Ways to Connect This Project to Black History Month:

• Share stories about Whitten’s life – Talk about how Whitten challenged artistic traditions and created new techniques.
• Discuss abstract art – How can color and texture tell a story even without words or pictures?
• Make it relevant – Remind kids that Black history is American history, and artists like Whitten are part of a bigger story of creativity and innovation.
• Encourage self-expression – Ask kids how they can use art to express their own feelings or ideas, just like Whitten did.