Ink from Soil

In this workshop participants create ink from soil and produce artwork using self-made ink.

Learning Outcome:

By the end of this lesson, students will have knowledge and understanding of:

• Material transformation, by understand the process of converting natural soil into usable ink and recognizing how natural materials can be repurposed for creative endeavors.

• Sampling ingredients, by identifying the specific components and ingredients required for making ink from soil, such as soil types, binders, and pigments, and grasping the role of each element in the ink-making process.

• Techniques in ink production, by demonstrating proficiency in mixing and preparing the soil-based ink, achieving a desired consistency, color, and texture suitable for artwork.

• Artistic expression, by utilizing the self-made ink to produce an artwork, showcasing creativity, originality, and the ability to manipulate the ink to achieve different visual effects and styles.

• Environmental awareness, by recognizing the environmental benefits of using natural, locally sourced materials in art and understanding the sustainable aspect of repurposing soil for artistic purposes.

• Artistic presentation, by presenting the finished artwork, demonstrating effective use of the soil-based ink in a visually appealing and thoughtfully composed piece.

• Reflection and documentation, by reflecting on the ink-making and artwork creation process, documenting the steps taken, challenges faced, and personal artistic growth or insights gained.

• Collaboration and sharing, by collaborating with peers, sharing experiences, techniques, and artworks created with soil-based ink, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for diverse artistic approaches.

• Safety and responsibility, by exhibiting safe and responsible handling of materials during the ink-making process, adhering to guidelines for the use of tools and equipment.

• Critical thinking, by evaluating the advantages and limitations of using soil-based ink in artwork, exploring its potential for innovation and further experimentation in artistic practices.

Lesson plan

• Explain how cultivation and human activities affect the characteristics and qualities of soil. Discuss the effect of pollution on the quality of the soil.

• Take soil samples from different areas and write down what kinds of plants are close to the place where the samples are taken. Discuss the different qualities of the soil for microorganisms in connection to PH, drainage, structure etc. 

• Explain why, soil quality is a complex interplay of different factors such as pH, drainage, structure, organic matter, temperature, and more. Soil quality plays a crucial role in supporting microorganisms, which are essential for healthy soil and ecosystems. Here are some key soil qualities that affect microorganisms. PH Level: Acidity and Alkalinity. Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline (basic) the soil is. Microorganisms have preferences for different pH levels. Some thrive in slightly acidic soils, while others prefer neutral or alkaline conditions. Soil pH influences the types and abundance of microorganisms present. Moisture and drainage have great effects onmicroorganisms as they need water to survive and perform their functions. Soils that are consistently too wet or too dry can be less suitable for microorganisms. Well-draining soils with adequate moisture content provide a better habitat for microorganisms. Soil texture (the size of mineral particles) and aggregation (how well particles stick together) affect the soil's ability to retain water and air. Good soil structure provides microorganisms with spaces to live and move around, access to nutrients, and proper aeration. Organic matter in the form of plant residues, compost, and other organic materials serves as a food source for many microorganisms. Soils rich in organic matter support a diverse and active microbial community. Microbial activity is influenced by soil temperature. Warmer temperatures generally promote faster microbial growth and activity, while cold temperatures can slow them down. Different microorganisms have temperature preferences. Microorganisms require essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow and carry out their functions. Soils with a balanced nutrient content can support healthy microbial communities. Adequate oxygen levels in the soil are critical for aerobic microorganisms, which require oxygen for their metabolism. Well-aerated soils facilitate the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. Some soils may contain toxic substances like heavy metals or pesticides that can harm microorganisms. Healthy soils with low levels of contaminants are more favorable for microorganism activity. A diverse community of microorganisms contributes to soil health. Different microorganisms have specific roles in nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and organic matter decomposition. High microbial diversity enhances soil resilience. Human activities like agriculture, urban development, and pollution can alter soil quality and affect microorganisms. Sustainable land management practices can help maintain soil health and support microorganisms.

• Make ink with the soil samples. 

•  Gather the materials needed, pestle, mortar, strainer, measuring cups and spoons, a pot that you don’t mind devoting to inkmaking, stove, spoon or stir stick, white vinegar, salt, glass containers with fitted lids, Gum arabic (a binder you can get at most art-supply stores), sticker paper, for labels, funnel, an old coffee grinder (optional), coffee filters, funnelglass dropper, rubber gloves and some rags for cleanup, thick white paper, brushes.

• Begin by working on the structure of the soil by grinding it and sieving until achieving a very fine powder.  

• Put an old pot on a stove, add water and soil and salt (1 dash per cup), keeping just below boiling.

•  Experiment with changing the pH level of the soil, using bicarbonate of soda and vinegar. You can use 1 teaspoon per cup.

• Cook for at least an hour or until the water takes on a deep, rich color. Use a strip of paper to test your color.

• Place a coffee filter inside a funnel, then the funnel inside a wide-mouth glass jar. Pour the water slowly into the top to filter the ink.

•  In a glass bottle, add gum arabic (one part to 10 parts ink). Pour ink into the bottle, leaving some space at the top. Close with a tight-fitting lid.

•  Name and label your ink.

•  Use ink in arts and crafts projects.