Easy Native American Masks: Cherokee-Inspired Art Lesson for Kids
Draw easy Native American masks with a Cherokee influence using rubbing plates and crayons. A perfect art lesson for grades 2–5. Grab your PDF now.
Easy Native American Masks Art Lesson
This Cherokee-inspired mask project introduces students to symbolism, texture, and cultural art traditions — all in a simple, step-by-step format. Inspired by the wooden masks of artist Billy J. Welch, students draw bold mask designs, outline with black marker, and use wood texture rubbing plates to simulate carved wood.
The lesson is designed for grades 2–5 and gives students space to then turn their mask into one of the clan that Mr. Welch teaches about. You’ll love how easy it is to teach, and your students will love how unique their masks turn out. It’s a great mix of creativity and structure — no special prep required.
Understanding Cherokee Mask Traditions
The Cherokee people have a long tradition of using carved masks in storytelling, ceremonies, and to represent different clans — like the Wolf or Deer Clan. These masks often include strong shapes and animal features that carry symbolic meaning.
Artist Billy J. Welch continues this tradition with wooden masks that reflect both cultural heritage and personal expression. In this lesson, students use rubbing plates to mimic the texture of carved wood, connecting them to traditional materials in a respectful way.
Rather than copying sacred objects, this project invites students to explore identity, symbolism, and texture while learning about Native American art in a meaningful and age-appropriate way.
Preview of the Native American Mask Tutorial
Native American Mask Coloring Page
Native American Mask Materials List
Directions to Draw a Native American Mask
Time needed: 30 minutes
Draw a Native American Mask Step by Step
- Draw the head shape.
- Add two eyes inside.
- Draw the nose and cheek lines.
- Add the mouth shape.
- Draw a brow line.
- Add lines under the eyes.
- Trace with a marker, fill in the eyes and mouth. Place a rubbing plate with wood texture underneath the paper and color with brown crayon.
- Place wood testure rubbing plate under the paper.
- Use a dark brown crayon to make the wood texture.
- Use that same crayon to add some shadows.
- Color very firmly over all of the wood with a beige crayon.
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