Field Trip! Visiting the Artist Miranda Herrick

This summer, I had the chance to visit the artist Miranda Herrick at the gallery where she works, Bennett Galleries. In an attempt to bring living, breathing artists to my students, I've been working on a video series called Field Trip! In this series, I visit the space where artists work and/or create and interview them about their process. Miranda's work is super unique in that she does a lot of her creating with recycled goods. In fact, this series of work is made entirely with recycled aluminum soft drink cans. I really think her method of creating is something students in middle and high school could also do. Here's a video of her walking us through her process:

I love so many elements of her work from the recycling to the idea of meditation to the notion that her work can be changed like that of a kaleidoscope. I also loved that she shared her inspirations...and that they ranged from her grandmother's quilts to Islamic tile work. 

 I've not tried to cut aluminum cans but Miranda made it look so easy. I really would love to explore this avenue of creating on my own...but, I don't know about my students. Ideally, my fourth graders should be able to cut this material. But, honestly, I'd be worried about them harming themselves. It will definitely be something I'd explore on my own before bringing a project like this to my art room. However, I do think that sharing this video with them will be fun!

 Someone recently asked me how I go about sharing these videos that I've created. I share them when they tie in with a current lesson. They also come in handy when I have to be absent and need a video to share with the kids. I've also shown snippets to my early finishers as they relax and use the dry erase boards on the floor. 

 Love to know your thoughts! And feel free to use the videos I create in your art room...that's why I share them with you.

 Now, when it comes to Miranda's drawings, I do see a way to tie-in. I really think they would be fabulous at teaching mindfulness and meditation. I am excited to bring this lesson to my student's sketchbooks. I can see even a collaborative project based around these. So many thoughts are in my head! 

 Um, can I get a wall of these in my home, please? 

 In case you've missed the other videos in the Field Trip! series, here you go: