Inspired by the books of Leo Lionni, Lois Ehlert and Eric Carle, available at Split Rock Books, we will focus on textures like tree bark, lichen covered rocks, and fallen dried plants, as spring begins to emerge. We will make texture rubbings of these surfaces with color, and then cut them up into shapes for collage. Our collages will transform these grey winter elements into bright landscapes and compositions, just as nature begins its transformation into a more colorful Spring. We will have all the materials you need, and you can also bring 1 or two found pieces of fallen bark or a small rock that you might want to incorporate.

FEE: $10 in advance, $15 day of

--

Lara Shihab-Eldin is an architectural designer focused on sustainable materials. She recently completed a children’s library space which brings together literacy, play, and ecological design; inspired by the history, landscape, and industry of a Hudson River community. Lara has volunteered for the past 3 years to encourage environmental stewardship and teach outdoor education in her community. She loves teaching and learning with collaborators, outdoor educators, and children, and bringing interdisciplinary design thinking to seasonal, nature-inspired art projects!

Andrea Toscano is an artist and gardener based in Kingston NY. She currently is concentrated on in exploring how nature, art and design intersect through community outreach projects. Promoting sustainability and self-resilience through nature-based art and design projects is the core of her work. She currently assists with an outdoor learning program for children, and is inspired by facilitating hands-on learning to maintain healthy communities!