Instant sculpture. Balance.

Balance according to to Schirrmacher and Fox (2009), is "when forms appear to be in proportion to each other". It can also be referred to as "equilibrium or harmony". Balance can symmetrical, being perfectly balanced in all directions, or asymmetrical, with no even aspect. Both forms of balance can be used in intriguing ways. In my sculpture, I have used it literally and figuratively.

Laundry everywhere. (Wishing I could be) lying in bed. Intruding cat. 

My life as an instant sculpture. 

While making it did not take entirely that long, it took a long time to think something up. I wanted something that represented me. My boyfriend (and cat, for that matter) is very important to me, so I wanted to include him, or at least a representation of him. Indeed, these clothes are from the floor. 

He is much taller than me. He wears black and other solid colours, I enjoy colour (more than him, at least) and pattern. Literally this image is asymmetrical because the figures created are different sizes, and the colours used are all different. While to look at this image and not see balance is obvious, what it represents is very balanced. I like to think all aspects of my life are complimented nicely. This picture, to me, is harmonious. 

In an ECE setting, instant sculptures can easily be created in the classroom. The activity could take place as group work, or as individual work and it would be a great way to showcase and help children exercise their creative abilities. The children will have the opportunity to give new meaning to common objects, and express their thoughts when describing their creations. It is a good way for the educator to act as the observer as well, letting the children take control over their process, their outcome, and the meaning behind it.

Note: that is a tie dye drape behind the bed. I made it myself. I love tie dying things.

Reference
Schirrmacher, R., & Fox, J.E. (2009). Art and Creative Development for Young Children (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Delmar

Creativity.

Creativity to me is something I have never sensed before. It can be any medium, and it can be expressed in any way. It may happen instantaneously, or it could be something that was created over a long period of time. What is essential to the idea of creativity is that it is new, or a fundamental change.

The article we read discusses creativity as a phenomenon that occurs every day, all around us. Which I believe is true. Any person, of any ability, age, or locale, has the capacity to think a novel thought, and represent it in the way they choose.

Creativity, though, is subjective. one person may hear a song, and think it is beautiful. Another will listen to it, and hear noise. It is important to keep this in mind when considering artistic endeavours, or working with others on creative projects.

My own creative inspiration is greatly influenced by my immediate environment. My favorite time of year is when my friends and I head east for a music festival we always attend.


Source: Erica Downes

it's a little hippie, folky festival that celebrates music and art. we camp for a weekend, take part in workshops and get to listen to live music every night. i love being there. it is so nice to be surrounded by people in the same mind set, coming together to have fun and thrive on each other's imaginations. it is also kid friendly, which inspires me to think of creative projects for children in hopes that someday, i can run a program there.



Source: Erica Downes

that is not to say i am only creative then. the music i am listening to, the people i am with, and the room i am sitting in can effect my creative expression. it is a continuously changing process.