Moberly Elementary

In this residency we began by paying close attention to the natural environment just outside the school. We got to know the school grounds through mapping exercises. Observational drawing helped us take notice of many of the different trees around the school, from the Weeping Willow to the Cedars, to the Oaks and spring-time Cherry Blossoms, a favourite of the kindergartners.

This project unfolded with various material explorations introducing students to languages of these materials. We considered how patterns are all around us, from the leaves of trees to the seasons of the year, to the beats on a drum and the beats of our hearts.

We often started with a simple graphite rubbing and then added colour with paint, or needle and thread, creating a multilayered work that evolved throughout our sessions together. This stretching out of processes allowed students to slow down and experience various materials yet at the same time learn how each medium has its own language, strengths and even limitations.