Activities
Costume Packs
Available whenever the Museum is open
FREE
The BMA features new Costume Packs inspired by works of art. Kids can twirl in a tutu inspired by Degas' Little Dancer, don King George IV's fanciful cape, carry a Native American bandolier, or hold court in an ornate collar, necklace, and bodice fit for a Queen.
Costume Packs are available at the Welcome Desk in the BMA lobby.
Online Activity
Meet Raoudi, artist Henri Matisse's perky schnauzer, in Matisse for Kids, a delightful on-line exploration of the beloved 20th century master's bold, bright paintings. Along the way, you'll earn props, patterns, and colors to use in creating your own Matisse-inspired artwork.
Fun Things to do with Your Child at the BMA
Imagine that a painting or sculpture could come alive. What sounds would it make? How would it move? What would it do or say?
The eyes have it. Take turns describing a detail from a painting aloud while your partner stands in the center of the gallery with eyes closed. When she opens her eyes, can she find the painting with the detail you described?
Pretend that you’re a team of detectives. Find a work of art or an object from long ago, maybe a Maryland period room, a portrait, or a clock. Examine the visual clues to determine WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, and HOW. Like any good sleuths, you’ll need to make guesses based on evidence and hunches.
Take a trip around the world without leaving Baltimore. Look at one object from each continent, or learn about one culture or country. “Visit” a landscape painting to take a swim in a lake, hike up a mountain, or enjoy a tropical holiday.
Act it out! Find a painting that depicts more than one person. Take roles. What are the characters saying to one another? How are they related?
Tell a tale. Can you find a work of art that tells a story? Maybe it tells about everyday life or the person who made it or used it. It could illustrate a legend or myth. Some artworks are mysterious, whimsical, or fantastical—try making up a tall tale!
Fun for the very young. Find simple shapes, favorite colors (name everything blue you see in one gallery, red in the next), or an array of animals. Try counting numbers, making up a rhyme, or striking a pose!
You’ll enjoy the Museum more if you look at just a few objects, or one special exhibition. An hour—or even half an hour—may be enough time. Remember, you can always come back—admission to the collection is FREE for all.
For more information about the BMA’s programs for children and families, call 443-573-1818.
BMA Audio Tour for Families
FREE
The BMA is one of the only museum audio tours with a dog leading the way! Raoudi, Matisse’s perky schnauzer, is the voice behind the Museum’s new Family Tour, which highlights objects in the collection. Rather than headphones, the Family Tour offers a handheld audio device that allows families to pause and chat about a work.
