Teacher video: Clarice Cliff

This Art and design video supports teachers in delivering a lesson inspired by the work of Clarice Cliff, focusing on her iconic circle tree design. Learners create their own decorative paper plate, using bold concentric circles and a contrasting black tree silhouette. The video guides teachers through the process of mixing bright colours from primary paints and applying them carefully to form even, layered circles. It also introduces a playful technique for painting tree silhouettes using black paint and straws.

This video is part of Kapow’s Art and design resources, which support the Cambridge Primary Art & Design framework. It helps teachers feel confident leading lessons that combine colour theory, observational analysis and experimental application. Through this engaging activity, children develop their brush control, composition skills, and understanding of contrast while expressing themselves through vibrant, imaginative design.

Art and design, Stage 1, Unit 2, Lesson 5: Clarice Cliff Plates