" Art in Action 1" is the first of two beautifully illustrated art activity books that introduce children to artwork by major painters of different eras, while also encouraging boys and girls to stretch their imaginations and enjoy the unique experience of creating original artwork of their own. Each book presents 24 creative projects inspired by works from famous artists who include the Italian baroque master Caravaggio, James McNeill Whistler, Henri Matisse, and many others. An introduction to parents and teachers advises on how to use these books with children, and emphasizes that no prior knowledge of the subject is needed. Each project includes a reproduction of an artwork, background on the artist, the historical period, techniques employed, and directions for presenting it to children as inspiration for them to create their own original art. The accomplished paintings shown for demonstration are intended as stimuli to get kids started creating artwork of their own, and are not meant as mere models to be copied. " Art in Action 1" is designed for younger children. An accompanying volume, " Art in Action 2, " features more ambitious projects for kids ages 9 and older. Both books are heavily illustrated in color.