on scrap paper, show children how they can “paint” with the items found on their walk.
Pine needles can be used like paintbrushes. a stick can be gently dipped on its side in the paint,
then pressed onto the paper to create the trunk and branches. By using the same item to create
a pattern, children can depict mountains, grass or leaves. after children have had a chance to
experiment, have them paint their design on the packing paper.
allow the paint to dry and erase any visible pencil lines. the finished artwork can be matted
and framed or used as gift-wrap.
the kid-friendly staff at handmade graciously offered this wire sculpture project, inspired
by nature and alexander Calder, an artist and sculptor who invented the mobile. the creative
possibilities are endless with this summertime favorite.
Find:
sketch paper and pencil
bailing wire, colored wire, old phone wire, construction wire, etc.
(art supply stores sell various types of wire)
wire cutters
scissors
wood glue (elmer’s glue works too)
wood chunks (lumberyards often sell random pieces of 2 x 4’s and 4 x 4’s)
power drill
paint, fabric, tissue paper (optional)
Get inspired:
take a walk around your neighborhood or look through books or magazines with pictures of
the great outdoors. Sketch whatever inspires you on paper: a landscape, individual tree, flower,
leaf or animal.
Create:
use the wire to create an outline or contour sculpture of your drawing. the pliers will help in
making interesting shapes and sharp angles. allow at least one of the wire ends to extend from
the sculpture so that it can be stabilized in the wood.
drill holes into the wood, placing the wire ends into the holes. Fill the empty spaces in the
holes with glue. finish your sculpture by staining or painting the wood pedestals. you can also
add fabric, tissue paper and other materials to the sculpture for extra color.
Using this project as a model, you can also create mobiles or hanging sculptures.
there is no limit to what you can do with a child’s imagination, a few art supplies and a nature
walk. nature-inspired artwork fosters a love of learning in children and presents great oppor-
tunities for parents to bond with their young ones. moms and dads might even learn a thing or
two.
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www.eaglemagazine.com
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