I work at an elementary/middle school. Every year we do a huge project called great artists, where each class picks an artist and learns about them and their techniques and then each student will make art using those techniques. I would love for a class or two to choose a digital artist as many of them are really into it and i think it is a great skill to have.
Can anybody recommend an artist for this purpose? Im thinking someone who specializes in nature or cartoons, obviously something kid friendly (2nd grade & 5th grade).

Also, our middle schoolers are learning pixelmator which is great but im looking into a simple program for the younger kids that is preferably free or very inexpensive. So far the best one i have found is "TuxPaint". any other suggestions?

Thanks so much for the help!