Rembrandt: Fathers & Sons
From Devine Entertainment Specials · 1999
53 min3rd4th5th6thArtSocial Studies
Summary
In 17th-century Amsterdam, the great Dutch painter Rembrandt takes on a new studio apprentice, a young Jewish boy named Samuel. As master and student work side by side -- and as Rembrandt navigates his bond with his own son -- both learn to break free from safe habits and rigid expectations. The film highlights Rembrandt's dramatic play of light and deep shadow.
Viewer safety
Ages 7+
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A famous painter and his young apprentice teach each other to take chances instead of playing it safe.
- Rembrandt is known for glowing light next to deep shadow. How does light change the mood of a picture?
- Samuel had to learn from a demanding master. What is hard -- and what is good -- about learning from an expert?
- Why might even a famous artist need a fresh pair of eyes in the studio?
- Think of a skill an older person taught you. What did you pass along, or could you?
Quick work-a-long
Words to know: apprentice, studio, shadow, portrait
- Shine a light on an object from one side. Describe where the brightest spot and the darkest shadow fall.
- Rembrandt trained an apprentice. Name one thing you could teach someone else to do step by step.