BODY, NATURE, NARRATIVE
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Learning a special collage technique and experience how nature and personal stories are interwoven both visually and emotionally. Discover how this connection can be a source of strength and inspiration.
KEYWORDS
visual creation
collage technique
intercultural communication
storytelling
empathy
listening
observation.
DURATION
Minimum 2 hours
SKILLS
visual creation
collage technique
intercultural communication
storytelling
empathy
listening
observation.
PREPARATION
Gathering materials and books and assembling a sample collage using the collected materials ahead of the training session is essential. Gain some instruction on collage techniques, ensuring they grasp the fundamentals. In cases where the trainer lacks expertise in specific techniques deemed valuable for the group, the assistance of an experienced artist can be invaluable.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS
Dried plants and natural objects collected by the participants
decorations drawn by participants on the paper.
Books containing photographs and images of natural objects
images inspired by natural elements.
Colored pencils
Black markers
A4 transparent paper
Glue
Printer (for black and white prints in A4 format)
DESCRIPTION
1. Collection/Preparation (Blended Part): - Gather various plants, flowers, and herbs encountered in the months leading up to the training. Encourage participants to do the same, selecting items like herbs and spices used in cooking, flowers gathered during summer trips or received as gifts, and plants with personal significance. - Dry the plants and instruct participants to do the same, ensuring they are preserved for the workshop.
2. Photo-Taking: - At the onset of the workshop, have participants pair up and take full-body photos of each other in various poses. - Print the photos in black and white on A4 or A3 paper.
3.Design: - Provide participants with black and white photo prints, pens, colored paper, tracing paper, and glue. - Prompt them to alter their representations in the photos, including figures, clothing, and surroundings. Encourage them to achieve this through drawing or affixing dried plants, herbs, and spices to specific parts of the photo. For further inspiration, suggest using books featuring images of plants, insects, and animals.
4.Reflection and Discussion: - Facilitate discussions where participants share their thoughts on the artworks and the significance of the chosen plants. - Prompt them to reflect on how nature intertwines with their life stories, particularly in the context of migration or flight, and how it aids them in overcoming challenges. The following key questions can deepen the discourse:
What do the selected plants symbolize in your personal narrative?
What memories do these plants evoke, particularly regarding migration or flight?
How has nature supported you in overcoming obstacles?
What role does nature currently play in your life, and how might it influence your future?
BLENDED ELEMENTS/TUTORIAL
Brainstorming ideas for the collaborative creation of a group product, such as clothing, is the initial step. Participants engage in crafting artistic collages using the natural objects they've gathered, imbuing them with personal significance.
TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This activity serves as an introductory tool to gain deeper insights into the participants' backgrounds through the integration of collected objects within a creative workshop. You can incorporate this workshop into a broader project that entails multiple sessions, or it can be utilized independently. Additionally, it can be seamlessly integrated with a museum visit to enhance the overall experience.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
Brainstorming ideas for the collaborative creation of a group product, such as clothing, is the initial step. Participants engage in crafting artistic collages using the natural objects they've gathered, imbuing them with personal significance.
