Today we're going to be looking at art in all three dimensions. Once we've studied the basics, you will get a chance to design your own creations. You can work alone or with a team to build a masterpiece. Maybe you can even make it a family competition and critique each other's work, or put on an art show in your yard. 3... 2... 1... create! 

How does Art look in 1, 2, and 3 Dimensions?

If we imagine using a box as the subject, how would we draw it using different dimensions? Look at the images below to compare 1D, 2D, and 3D versions

Let's look at some 3D art: 

Sculptures, installations, and performance pieces can all be classified as 3D

A few more examples before we begin:

Take a look at the nature art in this slideshow and start thinking about what type of work you want to create. Some of the images are Goldsworthy's work, and others are made by people who make similar art or use his work as inspiration. Can you figure out which are his based on what you've seen so far?

Things to consider:

• What type of materials can you find in your yard or local park?

• What are the colors you find this time of year? Flowers have beautifully colored petals, but don't pick them at home without permission or steal them from nature. (Make sure they're around for others to enjoy)

• How many textures can you find?

• What shapes can you make?

• Where will you build your work? On the ground? In a tree? In water?

• How can you engage three dimensions? Experiment with balancing and building off of different shapes.

• How long will this work last? Will it melt, fall down, or blow away?

Think about these things when you look through the examples, then watch the video below for your full instructions.

Outdoor Art Challenge

It's time! Gather your friends and family and get creative! You can make it a competition or work together on one big project. Once you've completed your masterpiece, take a moment to step back and take it in. You will want to take a picture before it's taken down. Also, don't be afraid to ask for feedback! Your friends and family can help critique your work and give you suggestions for next time. When you're ready, move on to the next section.

Optional: Upload an image of your work. We would love to see your creations and use them as examples for future campers at Nuhop! The upload section is below the video.

Wrapping it up

How did it go? Did you enjoy spending time outdoors letting your creativity flow? Let's take a moment to review what we studied and think about how we can apply our knowledge. Then, you can give some feedback in the reflection.

1. We discussed the three dimensions of length, width, and height. Many scientists believe there are many more than that. If we include the idea of time as a fourth dimension, how would that affect our art? Is performance art 4D?

2. Andy Goldsworthy is probably the most well-known artist who uses nature as his medium. Take a moment to search for other nature-based artists. Share three artists or works of art with a friend.

3. You probably spent less than an hour building your creation. How long do you think it takes Andy Goldsworthy to create his larger pieces? What would you make if you were able to spend that much time on your art?

Reflection

We've come a long way today. Hopefully you've enjoyed your time in nature and you're happy with your creation. Answer the questions below to let us know how you feel. There are no wrong answers.

About the Author

Rainbow*

There are so many colors of the rainbow, and she likes to use every one! When Rainbow graduated from high school, she went to Kent State University to study fine art, but found that her favorite time of year was the time she spent working at summer camps in between semesters. If you've been to an Ohio Girl Scout camp lately, you've probably seen her there! After earning a BFA in painting and sculpture, she came to Nuhop to work in a camp setting year-round. Her favorite activities are campfires, the high ropes course, and rock climbing.  She can't wait to see the smiling faces of all her campers when they come to Nuhop once again!

*The Nuhop Outdoor Education Staff use "nature names" when working with students. The reason for these nature names is twofold: first it gives them a built-in conversation starter with students, and second, it provides them a level of personal privacy when working with over 4000 students in a given year.