This term, Year 5 have been reaching for the stars—literally! As part of their space-themed learning, the children have been busy creating incredible space paintings!

We began by looking at a range of images of the universe and discussed how we might recreate these using our art skills and knowledge.

Using dark backgrounds and bold, bright paints, we explored different techniques such as using a scrunched up paper towel to add texture and a mottled effect, flicking paint to create stars with toothbrushes, and layering colours to bring the universe to life. We were careful not to add too much paint, as we still wanted the black background to be visible. 

Next the children looked at a range of drawings and photographs of astronauts wearing their space suits. We tried to draw different versions of the spacemen on white paper using black felt pen. Some children chose to draw a close up picture of the spaceman, adding detail to the suit whilst other children wanted to draw a smaller astronaut to place onto their background. The children were allowed to create a composition of their choice. 

We then discussed how we could create the illusion of a reflection in the helmet of the suit. We decided to cut out the visor of the spacesuit, which allowed the background to be visible through the drawing.

The results are out of this world!

We then had lots of fun experimenting with ink, water, and salt to create beautiful, textured planet art.

The children began by dropping coloured inks onto wet paper, watching as the colours spread and blended like swirling gases on a real planet’s surface. Then came the exciting part—sprinkling salt over the wet ink! As the ink dried, the salt absorbed some of the moisture and created magical, crater-like textures, giving each planet a truly cosmic feel.

This technique allowed the children to explore colour mixing, texture, and abstract art in a creative and scientific way. Each planet turned out completely unique—just like the planets in our solar system!

The final results look absolutely spectacular, and our classroom is now home to a whole galaxy of colourful, swirling worlds.