For the first question, we came up with three basic ideas: Art can be almost anything- painting, music, acting, sculpture, dance, poetry, even something made of sticks and leaves. Art is something that is created (usually by humans), and Art is a way of expressing an idea, thought, feeling, something inside you.
Most of the counselors answered that Nature is a source of inspiration to the second question, 'How is Art connected to Nature?'. There were different opinions about whether nature itself is art, or if it has to be manipulated by humans. I would like to explore this subject more in the future. What do you think, is nature art?
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| Wheat grass- Is Nature Art? |
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| Onion Flower- Is Nature Art? |
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| Rucker Canyon Lake, AZ 2005 photo by Jacob Is Nature Art? |
I wrote the following for a handout given to the counselors, and I think it expresses my thoughts about how we can use art to help connect people to nature.
Art reaches us differently than many activities. Visual art, music, dance, poetry, and writing allow us to express ourselves, and connect to the world. At the nature center we want to give children opportunities to connect to nature, and art is a tool we can use. Art is available to all no matter our abilities and talents. We are free to express what is in our hearts and minds. The goal for us isn’t the product, but the process. Be a source of encouragement, and a facilitator of exploration. Art is different from crafts because it is less directed with step by step instructions, and a defined outcome. We give the kids some guidelines and media (paint, rocks, popsicle sticks) and see what they invent. I’m sure some beautiful art will be produced but, more importantly as long as someone’s heart is in it, it will be incredible, beautiful, and powerful.
We finished the training with a Andy Goldworthy video and time outside making art out of sticks, rocks, leaves, and grass. Each group made wonderful works, and can share the experience with kids this summer.
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| Art Made by kids in Andy Goldsworthly fashion. |
This IS super, Anna! In my early childhood ed. training, we were taught the "work" of young children is to explore their environment using all five senses and in doing any artwork even as simple as finger painting with chocolate pudding on wax paper it's THE PROCESS, not the end result. I also am excited to share this blog with a cousin who lives in Tenn. and has a "Garden of Eden" flower garden on his property. He sends the most gorgeous photos online. I've told him if neighbors and/or friends find out about his lovely yard(s), they just might want him to host an outdoor wedding or two or three. I plan to advance my scores on these multiple choice tests and perhaps compete with my hubby! Keep up this great work! Mrs. Glenna Lambert - Johnny's wife
ReplyDeleteHi Glenna,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the wonderful comment! I do enjoy art, nature, and working with kids. It is fun to watch kids' minds working. I haven't taken a formal childhood learning or development class, but I think I would get a lot of insight out of it. Were you a teacher? I don't think I would enjoy working in a traditional classroom, but I think I will be evolved in learning in the future.
You posted your comment on a older post would you mind if I copy/paste it onto the current post. Perhaps more people will leave comments if they see yours. Thanks for sharing my blog with your cousin, too.