Before starting the project, read up on the topic of fireflies. Knowing more about them -- habitat, food, life expectancy -- adds an extra dimension to the art project and helps people put the subject into perspective.
Start with the basic shape of fireflies. For this phase of the art project, punch holes in the lid of a jar and go out at night to catch fireflies. Do black and white sketches of fireflies from different angles -- top, bottom, side view -- to develop an appreciation of their distinct body shape. Add color with more advanced sketches. Let the fireflies go at the end of the project and then catch another batch when you need more live models.
Try taking photographs of fireflies. If you are a wildlife photographer and have a telescopic lens -- and a lot of patience -- you may be able to get some fascinating shots. If it proves too difficult to get quality material, cut photographs of fireflies from magazines and Internet downloads to make a collage. Depending on the group doing the project, it could be anything from a simple bulletin board display to a framed entry in an art exhibit.
Use clay to make fireflies. Be creative and make them as big or as small as you want. Let the sculptures dry and then paint them. Another project idea is to mold them so that they fit on top of small blinking lights for an added effect. Just be sure not to leave the art project unattended.
Working with water colors, oils or acrylics, use the sketches done earlier in the art project to paint pictures of fireflies. The project could culminate with an exhibit of firefly paintings if it is a group project. Then again, it may end up as a water color on the fridge. Either way, you'll enjoy developing the firefly theme through the art project.