Greek Art & Architecture

 Children having fun in workshop

Children in workshop

Children in workshop

Children participating in workshop

Child drawing in workshop

Visit Manchester Art Gallery's neo-classical building, designed as a temple to the arts. Pupils will explore life in ancient Greece by drawing on myths, stories and beliefs represented in the gallery's paintings, ceramics, friezes and sculptures.

Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)

  • To start to understand that the art and architecture they see today is often inspired by styles from previous ages. 
  • To learn to recognize and draw simple elements of Greek architecture and to see its influence in the Manchester Art Gallery building. 
  • To expand pupils vocabulary for describing parts of Greek architecture. 
  • To learn about Greek mythology using the stories of Prometheus and Pandora’s Box.

What happens in a workshop

The workshop begins in the studio using the interactive whiteboard to show and discuss Greek architecture. The children then explore the exterior and interior of the gallery to identify architectural styles. Each pupil will complete a worksheet to encourage observation. In the gallery pupils will learn about myths portrayed in some of the paintings and have the opportunity to observe and draw original Greek artefacts.

Prepare for your visit

  • Pupils would benefit from a basic knowledge of architectural elements with an awareness of the Greek Gods. 
  • Find out how to plan your visit, including booking information, parking, facilities and a downloadable risk assessment.

What people are saying about the workshop

"I have learnt so much – absolutely brilliant! So inspirational! Wish we had done it last year and the year before!"

Year 3 Teachers, Manchester Prep School for Girls

How to book

Child in workshop
Find out how to plan your visit.