How Materials Shape Us: Integrating Art + Science

Artworks are made from a wide variety of materials: paper, metal, wood, plastics, cloth, clay, and much more. How do materials like these shape us? Why are we drawn to different materials? Where do materials come from? How do materials mean different things to different cultures?

We will explore how artists in the exhibition Pour, Tear, Carve: Material Possibilities in the Collection (on view at The Phillips Collection from March 18-May 24, 2023) use materials as an expression of their culture and identity. We will make connections to ourselves as educators and to our students–exploring relationships between materials significant to us and our cultures. We will make both scientific and cultural curricular connections by focusing on cycles and understanding the origins of these materials. The evening will include interactive activities, artmaking, and culturally-responsive teaching strategies to enhance your curriculum.

This will be a virtual event. Register HERE!

(Image info: Kevin Cole, Embracing Wisdom, 2006, Mixed media, 54 x 66 x 9 in., The Phillips Collection, Gift of Larry and Brenda Thompson, 2020)