camp

I really couldn't have asked for a better final week at art camp. The last session was by far my favorite in terms of projects and was particularly special because I got to spend some time with my cousin Natalie. It was super hard to pick photos to include in this post...I had many favorites. The first project we embarked on was a landscape "spaces" canvas painting. The students found pictures in old National Geographic magazines to piece together in one composition. Then we made animal sculptures out of recycled materials that they brought from home and plaster gauze. Below is a goldfish one camper made. I think it's pretty hilarious.

This week we also watched clips on glass artist Dale Chihuly. The kids were so amazed by glass blowing; we probably could have watched the video all afternoon. Chihuly gathers inspiration for his pieces by first creating large-scale drawings. We did the same, situating the kids on the floor with paper as big as they were, tools for smearing and splattering and bowls upon bowls of paint. Then we created small clay pieces inspired by his Macchia series, finishing them with brightly colored acrylic paint, marbling and patterns. The final piece for the day was a group installation. They cut apart and painted plastic bottles and curled wire around them. They were then all hung on a wooden tree.

This week we also learned about earth artist Andy Goldsworthy. We went on a scavenger hunt around the Art Association grounds, collecting materials and then the kids chose a spot outside to install their piece. I was truly amazed by what they created. They were all beautiful.

It was a bittersweet week and I'll miss the constant commotion and excitement, but I look forward to having more time to devote to my own work; I've been so exhausted! As for this weekend, I'm hoping for some tea tasting, outdoor music under the St. Louis Arch and moon gazing.

Happy weekend!