Mary Blair-inspired Mixed Media Art for Kids

Celebrate the whimsical art of Mary Blair with this fun mixed media project inspired by Disney’s It’s a Small World ride!

It’s a world of laughter, it’s a world of tears. It’s a world of hopes and a world of fears. There’s so much that we share that it’s time we’re aware it’s a small world after all.

These iconic lyrics aren’t the only reason It’s a Small World is a Disneyland and Magic Kingdom favorite. It’s also known for the brilliant designs and bold colors used throughout the ride. And that’s where the wildly imaginative Disney illustrator Mary Blair comes into the picture for us.

Today we’re creating a mixed media project inspired by Mary Blair and the artistic legacy she left through this beloved ride.

Mary Blair Mixed Media Art for Kids

Here are the supplies* you’ll need for this Mary Blair-inspired project:

8 x 10 canvas panel
Assorted scrapbook paper sheets (bright colors and patterns are best)
Scissors
Mod Podge (Any finish will work)
Paint or sponge brushes (one for paint, one for Mod Podge application)
Glue stick
Pencil
Black acrylic paint
Black Sharpie (optional)
White gel or paint pen (optional)

*Some of these links for recommended items are referral links; that means I could receive compensation if you click through and take action through one of them.

Since this project is inspired by her work on It’s a Small World, you may want to spend some time viewing photos from the attraction itself. You can also visit Designing Disney to learn more and view photos and concept art for the ride.

I also recommend perusing her website and checking out a couple of books about her. We particularly like Mary Blair’s Unique Flair and Pocket Full of Colors (both are picture books), but The Art and Flair of Mary Blair is another excellent resource about her (plus it’s packed with photos of her work).

Step 1: Paint the canvas.

Once you have reviewed Mary’s work, you can begin the project by painting your canvas with black acrylic paint.

Like the dark backdrop used on the ride, using a black background for the project will bring Mary’s colors and designs to life.

Step 2: Prepare the design.

While waiting for the canvas to dry, gather your scrapbook paper, some scrap paper, a pencil, and scissors to prepare your design.

Keeping Mary’s art in mind, grab the scrap paper and pencil to sketch out possible designs for your project. Remember, you can recreate an actual scene from the ride or draw inspiration from Mary’s work to design your own unique creation.
Once you have an idea of the scene you want to create, lightly sketch out the elements for your design onto the scrapbook paper sheets. Then use the scissors to cut out the elements from the scrapbook paper.

Tip: Using complementary colors and patterns on the different elements will work best for the scene.

Step 3. Add the paper cutouts.

Next, use a glue stick to add the paper elements to the dry canvas. Be sure to layer correctly and quickly readjust the pieces if needed.

Step 4. Add accents

Once all the paper elements are glued in place, use a Sharpie or paint pen to add any accent marks to your project. This is optional, but it’s an easy way to provide balance in empty spots or add a little extra flair.
Lastly, gently add a generous layer of Mod Podge to seal your work. You can do this with your fingers or an old paintbrush.

Once the Mod Podge layer dries completely, your Mary Blair-inspired project is ready to display and enjoy!
Looking for more art ideas inspired by great artists? Here are a few more project ideas to try: