Tree faces

This imaginative outdoor art activity invites learners to use clay and natural materials to create expressive faces on tree trunks. Inspired by mythology, gargoyles and the Green Man, pupils explore texture, pattern and character while connecting creatively with nature. The activity encourages observation, storytelling and artistic expression through hands-on design.

© Learning Through Landscapes. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Activities (15+ min)
EYFS
Art and Design
Personal, Social and Emotional Development

Preparation

What you need
  • The tree faces activity guide.

Equipment

  • Several mature trees
  • Clay
  • Availability of natural materials such as leaves, twigs and seeds
  • A camera
Location

Outdoors

Useful guidance

Resources

LtL Tree Faces Activity Guidance.pdf 460.18 KB

Step by step

  1. Download the tree faces activity guide.
  2. Read the guidance for step by step instructions for each activity. 

Curriculum links

This activity can be used to support curriculum knowledge and skill development in Art & Design and Personal, Social and Emotional Development, alongside enhancing nature education, with age appropriate adaptations.

Thumbnail image: © Learning Through Landscapes. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0