Andy Goldsworthy: Play with Textures of Nature
In celebration of The Children and Nature Network’s campaign Let’s G.O. (Get Outside), we will be posting a weekly “Pocket Nature Activity.” These activities require minimal, if any, materials–and will be just as “wonder-full”
in your backyard, the local playground, a nearby nature center, or just on an after dinner walk around the neighborhood.
Be sure to share your favorite “Pocket Nature Activity” in the comments section, we will link to your ideas, website or blog posts on our Facebook page all month long.
Andy Goldsworthy: Play with the Colors of the Natural World
Begin this activity by discussing what environmental art is with your children. Explain that different styles of this art form exist and it can be traced back to the late 1960s.
Environmental art is often used to raise awareness of topics such as the sacredness of nature, recycling, climate change, renewable energy, the importance of connecting with nature, and other important issues.
Artists such as Andy Goldsworthy, Chris Drury, and Richard Long have written books that you can take on your hike (or share beforehand) to show kids and teens examples of art in nature.
To make Nature Sculptures: Hike along a trail, stopping to observe natural materials, looking for unusual colors, patterns, textures, and shapes. Then, either as pairs or individuals, plan a sculpture that will not damage the environment around you.
Nature Sculptures: Give Kids Time to Celebrate Their Creations
Make sure you express the “temporary” nature of the artwork—and commit to either taking the sculptures down at the end of your “Art Show” or determine a time you will come back and see what has happened to the sculptures.
Questions to ask might include: How does your sculpture represent your relationship with the environment? What do you hope your work will say to others? Why is Nature often an important part of “Art”?
