Artists share tips for raising creative kids: from foot casts to audio guides

Leading contemporary artists including Rachel Whiteread, Michael Armitage, Chantal Joffe, Rachel Maclean, Nick Goss, Caroline Walker, Ghislaine Leung, Miranda Forrester, Oliver Osborne, Tom de Freston, and Antonia Showering offer advice on introducing children to art. Whiteread cast her children's hands and feet for fun in her studio. Armitage lets his daughter lead with materials. Joffe emphasizes good materials and allowing mess. Maclean recommends making things over visiting museums. Goss's daughters sketch at Bristol safari park. Walker uses bribes and starts small at Kirkcaldy Galleries. Leung treats Tate Britain visits as a shared experience. Forrester filled her daughter's bedroom with art including a mural. Osborne uses audio guides for engagement. De Freston paints daily with his daughter, avoiding prescriptive goals. Showering advises enjoying children's curiosity and noise. The Guardian article published June 8, 2026, compiles these insights.