“Here is where I can learn” -Andy Goldsworthy
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After doing a Rainbow Walk and creating this nature mandala I felt like I understood Andy Goldsworthy’s work much more. Living in the city of Cranbrook I figured there isn’t much in the way of colourful natural options (remember the whole grey, dusty, dirty, gross?), I WAS WRONG! You just have to be looking for the colour and you will find it in the most unexpected places.
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I would love to create a lesson for my students where they began by going on a rainbow walk and creating a design based on what they found.
Our next step would be to research Andy Goldsworthy and be inspired by his ability to create beautiful things out of natural objects.
Next the students would explore outside and find 1-3 objects (sticks, leaves, rocks, pine cones, etc) and create a design using only those in their natural habitat.
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Following their art and exploration in nature students could journal about how it made them feel and what they enjoyed most.
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Ideally this activity will help students feel more grounded and connected to their environment 🌳

I am learning more and more about the unexpected beauty of Cranbrook and the outdoors through this Environmental Education course. I am excited to learn more and explore the possibilities for getting students outside and connecting the outdoors to the curriculum.