Assembled Artifact
Exhibition: Between-ness
Artist: Hannah Petkau
Overview
Hanna Petkau begins her creative process by spending time outdoors collecting. Similar to how Hannah draws inspiration from her interactions with these found objects, participants will spend time outside selecting found objects to transform and re-construct. They will then alter the objects through techniques such as braiding, weaving and painting and then re-assemble them into new objects.
Objectives
engage with the natural environment
use recycled/found materials in new creative ways
Create a unique sculptural object while making decisions about colour, texture and learn the process of editing.
Materials
Assorted collected objects
Acrylic paint
Paint brushes
Glue
Scissors
String/Thread/Thin Wire
Wire snips
Instructions:
Step One
Explore outside and collect various found objects along the way. Choose a variety of both natural items and discarded man-made objects. Consider variety in size, texture and perhaps multiples of small items. Keep in mind that you will be creating small sculptures so choose objects that you can easily carry and assemble using just glue or string.
While outside ensure you are only collecting discarded items and natural items that you have permission to collect. Instructors can use discretion to put limits on the amount of items.
Step Two
Spend time reflecting on your found objects and start making decisions on how you would like to alter them. Look at the nature of each material to determine what alterations are possible; is it a hard permeable object, is it soft and able to bend and be manipulated by the hand.
Step Three
Begin altering your objects using the provided materials. Challenge yourself by finding a way to alter each object you have found. This may include; painting, weaving, twisting, braiding, bending, cutting, distressing etc. Let painted items dry before continuing to the next step.
Step Four
Lay all objects in front of you and start moving them into various assemblages to help “sketch” out different ideas. Be creative in selecting the positions of each item and take this time to edit out any items that you may decide are not necessary. Next, survey the materials that you have and decide which you will use to assemble your objects together ie. String, glue etc.
The assembly techniques will vary widely as participants will be using their own knowledge of the materials and their own skill level to build their new artifact.
Variations
For younger participants - limit assembly materials. Collect small items and have them paint them and then assemble them together using glue.
Advanced participants: Once artifacts are assembled, participants can return outside as a group and place the objects back in the natural environment and discuss.
If weather is not cooperative have participants search for available discarded items indoors.
