Dots & Patterns: A Kusama Art Unit - 6 weeks

This six-week KS2 art unit introduces the work of contemporary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, famous for her bold colours, repeating patterns and distinctive polka dots. Through discussion, experimentation and reflection, pupils explore how artists use repetition, colour and composition to create powerful visual effects.

Across the unit, pupils analyse examples of Kusama’s artwork, develop their artistic vocabulary, practise key techniques and create their own Kusama-inspired final piece. The lessons encourage pupils to think about purpose, audience and artistic choices, while also building confidence in evaluating and discussing artwork.

The resource includes:

A six-week lesson sequence

Teacher guides for each lesson

Warm-up activities and art discussion prompts

Teacher observation checklists

Vocabulary progression for Year 3/4 and Year 5/6

Pre-unit and end-of-unit assessments

A cold piece → final piece comparison sheet

Assessment tracker and reflection booklets

Knowledge organiser and classroom discussion stems

This unit supports the KS2 Art and Design National Curriculum, helping pupils to produce creative work, improve mastery of artistic techniques and evaluate creative works using the language of art.

Ideal for KS2 teachers, art leads and curriculum planning, this resource provides a structured yet flexible approach to teaching a contemporary artist in an engaging and accessible way.