1/13/25

Bringing Keith Haring to Winter: How to Create Fun and Energetic Snowmen!


Keith Haring, known for his bold lines, vibrant colors, and iconic figures full of movement, is a perfect inspiration for adding a lively twist to your winter art projects. Why not bring his unmistakable style into the chilly season with some Keith Haring-inspired snowmen? Whether you’re a teacher, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a fun activity, this project is a fantastic way to combine seasonal cheer with art history.

Materials You’ll Need:

  • Black markers or paint pens (thick-tip for bold lines)

  • White paper or cardstock

  • Colored paper, markers, or crayons

  • Scissors and glue (optional for mixed media)

  • Ruler or compass (optional, for cleaner circles)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Research and Inspiration

Before you begin, take a moment to explore Keith Haring’s artwork. Notice his use of:

  • Thick, black outlines

  • Bright, solid colors

  • Dynamic, moving figures

  • Simple, repetitive patterns

This will give you a sense of how to design your snowmen in a way that’s true to his energetic and playful style.

2. Create Your Snowman Base

Start by drawing or cutting out three simple circles of varying sizes for the snowman’s body. You can:

  • Stack them traditionally (largest at the bottom, smallest at the top) or

  • Arrange them in a playful, wobbly pose to add movement and energy—a nod to Haring’s dynamic figures.

Use a black marker to outline each circle in bold, thick lines.

3. Add Haring-Inspired Details

  • Faces: Give your snowman a fun, expressive face. Think simple dots, lines, and shapes that convey emotion or excitement.

  • Arms: Instead of traditional stick arms, draw thick, curvy arms reaching out or waving.

  • Accessories: Add a scarf, hat, or mittens using bright, solid colors outlined in black.

4. Bring the Background to Life

One of Haring’s trademarks is his vibrant backgrounds. Here’s how to do it:

  • Draw radiating lines, dots, or patterns around your snowman to show movement and energy.

  • Use bold, contrasting colors to make the background pop.

5. Go Beyond Traditional Colors

Keith Haring wasn’t limited by realism, and you don’t have to be either! Experiment with unconventional colors for your snowman, like neon pinks, bright blues, or sunny yellows.

Display Your Masterpiece!

Once your Haring-inspired snowmen are complete, find a way to show them off. Hang them in a gallery-style arrangement on a wall, turn them into holiday cards, or share them as part of a classroom or community art display. Or, share and make a reel and tag us so we can see them.

Why Keith Haring?

Keith Haring’s art is about joy, energy, and connection—qualities that pair perfectly with the festive, whimsical nature of snowmen. By combining his style with this winter icon, you’re not only creating something fun and unique but also introducing the timeless appeal of Haring’s work to a new audience. Plus it is cold down here in Florida. It won't snow, but we can pretend, right?!?

Happy creating! 1969

For this Keith Haring-Inspired Winter Snowman Art Project, click here to view the full project at 2 Soul Sisters Art Ed on Teachers Pay Teachers. Be sure to check out our other fun art lessons and creative art projects for students of all ages!












 

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