This Learning Lab from the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) will explore still life creation through Charles Ethan Porter's piece Still Life with Roses (ca. 1885-87). 

Still life provides an avenue for exploration and observation unlike any other genre of visual art. Studying still life arrangements can be a great introduction to geometric analysis and spatial awareness for young minds. 

Visitors to this Learning Lab collection will have the opportunity  to learn more about nineteenth-century painter, Charles Ethan Porter, and his approach to still life painting while trying their hand at arranging their own still life! The questions, prompts, and information provided in this Learning Lab will help students develop their ability to follow instructions and hone their skills in observation, spatial analysis, and creative expression. 

The guiding questions of this Learning Lab are

• What is a still life?
• How can artists express themselves and tell stories through still life works?
• What are some connections between art and mathematical principles?
• How can we explore geometry through arranging a still life?

If you are new to Learning Lab, visit https://learninglab.si.edu/help/getting-started to learn how to get started!