Building a Figure
IDEAS DESIGN CHALLENGE
Inspired by Pascale Marthine Tayou: Beautiful
* Tip: Read this whole lesson plan before you get started so you can see how the plan will evolve.
Lesson Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
MATERIALS
- Cling plastic wrap
- Empty water bottle
- Tape
- Hot glue gun and/or tacky glue
- Various materials from around your house such as: sequins, string, yarn, pattern paper, bottle caps, buttons, leaves, straws, tongue depressors, stickers, plastic spoons, fabric scraps, Q-Tips, or anything that typically would be thrown into the garbage, once used.
Vocabulary: Upcycle means using old, discarded items to create something valuable, like art!
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Watch the following video about Pascale Marthine Tayou’s exhibition at The Bass.
Note: This video is in French with English subtitles.
DIRECTIONS
Prep
Look through your home and gather the listed materials above.
Tip: Most items can be found in the kitchen or bathroom.
STEP 1
Look closely at the images below. The artist calls these figures Poupes (poo-pays). Begin to identify the objects the artist chose to add to his sculptures.
Helpful Hints: Where might you find the objects on the Poupes? Think about what you would like your figure to represent. Is this a self portrait? Is this a garden nome? Is this an animal? A performer? Anything is possible!
STEP 2
Start with the ‘body’. Grab your used water bottle and sculpt cling wrap around the bottle, giving it features like arms, feet, nose. Secure the cling wrap to the bottle with clear tape.
STEP 3
Dress your figure. Using glue to add embellishments like string, yarn, buttons, flowers/leaves, etc. Remember to use your wildest imagination!
Tip: use the string to secure some of the smaller items in place.
STEP 4
Now give your artwork a title!
You did it! Use a black pen or pencil to sign your name, date and title your piece on the bottom a paper plate or paper and place your sculpture on-top.Be sure to share your work by taking a picture of your sculpture and tagging @BassCreativityCenter and #BassCreativityCenter.
LEARNING BENEFITS
This is a terrific opportunity to have a conversation about recycling and upcycling. By manufacturing ‘less’ new goods, less garbage is created which leads to a decrease of chemicals being released into the ground and air. Upcycling is also a great way to introduce your children how they can be involved to help make this planet a better place to live. Some of the most compelling artwork has been created by upcycling!
ADAPTATION FOR YOUNGER ARTISTS
Use larger objects that are easy to hold.
ADAPTATION FOR OLDER ARTISTS
Instead of using one water bottle, try 3-5. This will give more space to add embellishments. Also, try using a hot glue gun instead of tacky glue.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Learn more about Tayou’s exhibition Beautiful
- Learn more about Welcome Wall
- Complete more activities like this inspired by Pascale Marthine Tayou
Be sure to share your artwork by taking a picture of your sculpture and tagging @BassCreativityCenter and #BassCreativityCenter.