Looking for a creative and engaging Keith Haring-inspired art project for kids? This hands-on plaster activity blends sculpture and printmaking, making it perfect for classrooms or at-home art exploration.
Plaster is one of those materials that feels natural for me to use in the classroom. As a trained sculptor, I’m drawn to its versatility and the endless possibilities it offers. But more than that, it fits perfectly with my philosophy of giving kids “grown-up” supplies to work with. There’s something empowering about letting them use real materials—tools that artists use—to create something they can feel proud of.
This particular technique—a mix of sculpture and printmaking—is one of my favorites. It started during a Keith Haring unit, where we explored his bold shapes and textures. The process is straightforward but so rewarding. The kids carve their designs into clay, and when we pour plaster over it, the final piece is the negative of their work. There’s this magical moment when the plaster sets, the clay is peeled away, and the textures and patterns come to life. The kids call it “3D printing,” which makes me smile every time.
Plaster is such a versatile material that it finds its way into so many of our projects. Whether we’re using it to create molds, cover papier-mâché, or even pour onto canvases, it consistently delivers amazing results. This particular technique has become a classroom staple, and the results always feel special.
About Keith Haring
This activity was part of a semester-long thematic unit dedicated to Keith Haring. Throughout the unit, we created a variety of artworks using different media and techniques, all inspired by the bold and dynamic style of the American artist. Haring’s belief that “art is for everyone” wasn’t just a slogan—it was a deeply held conviction that shaped every aspect of his practice. From subway murals to community projects, he challenged the notion that art should be confined to galleries or accessible only to a select few. In the classroom, this philosophy served as a powerful reminder that creativity thrives when it’s shared and inclusive.
Keith Haring (1958–1990) was a groundbreaking artist best known for his instantly recognizable figures, bold lines, and vibrant colors. Emerging from the street art movement in New York City, Haring’s work often carried powerful messages about social justice, unity, and humanity. His murals, sculptures, and drawings appeared in public spaces and on everyday objects, emphasizing that art should be part of daily life, not reserved for elite spaces.
We chose Haring for this unit because of the immediacy of his art and the universal appeal it holds for children. His imagery is playful yet profound, encouraging young artists to explore movement, pattern, and expression while reflecting on the power of art to connect people and tell meaningful stories.
External resources:
Read also:
- Creating Art for Social Change: How Art Can Inspire Activism
- 10 Powerful Examples of Art That Sparked Social Change
Keith Haring’s Art
How to Create a Keith Haring-Inspired Plaster Art Project with Kids
Materials
- Takeout containers (deep, at least 4 inches)
- Oil-based clay (plasticine)
- Tools for carving (pencils, chopsticks, pens, sticks, etc.)
- Plaster
- Gouache paint
- Brushes
- Reference photos (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base
Give each child a takeout container. Have them fill the bottom of the container with a 1-inch-thick layer of oil-based clay (plasticine). Make sure the clay is malleable—if needed, warm it slightly in their hands or place it near a heater. - Create the Design
Provide a variety of carving tools such as pencils, chopsticks, or sticks.
Let the students carve their designs into the clay. Rotate printed references of artwork (e.g., Keith Haring’s works) for inspiration, focusing on texture and patterns. Encourage them to add detailed backgrounds, much like Haring’s iconic style.
- Mix the Plaster
Guide the students through the plaster preparation process (see detailed instructions HERE).
Pour the plaster into the container until it covers the clay layer by about 3 inches. Lightly shake and tap the container to release air bubbles. - Wait for the Magic
As the plaster sets, it will begin to warm up—let the kids feel this transformation!
While the plaster is still soft, encourage students to carve their names on the top (which will become the bottom when flipped). - Unmold the Masterpiece
Once hardened, flip the container to release the plaster piece. Carefully remove the clay layer and clean off any residue. Collect the plasticine, roll it into a ball, and set it aside for reuse. - Paint the Artwork
Have the students select a limited range of gouache colors. Encourage kids to use very dry or very watered-down brushes to highlight the texture of their piece.
For added depth, use a dry brush with black or dark colors to accentuate textures and patterns.
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