Day Four
Theme: Nature
Nature is a HUGE topic. As a matter of fact, nature is involved in everything. Whether we live in the city, country, or the suburb, nature provides for us and the animals. Where do you live?
Trees and flowers help provide food and shelter for the birds, bees, and other insects. Can you think of how nature provides for you? Nature also gives us more than food and shelter, it helps with the way we feel. Have you ever been to a place where there are no trees or grass? In some places in the city, there are very few trees and not much nature. How do you imagine that would make you feel?
Nature's beauty helps us to feel calm. We are part of nature, and it is something not to be taken for granted. That means, we should try our best to understand it's importance, and treat it with love and respect, much like we do with our own family. If you were to think of every tree and flower as part of your family, you would probably stop ignoring them.
We often forget about nature. What are some ways you forget about nature? It's okay if you've forgotten, because it's never to late to remember. Nature is forgiving and generous. It feeds us. It gives us water. It gives us oxygen so we can breathe. That's why it needs EVERYONE to help in any way they can, to keep the land, air and water healthy and away from chemicals and poisons. What are other ways you can help nature? Mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects, along with humans, need a healthy environment to survive.
If you have a yard, nature can be explored no matter how small it is. Taking a neighborhood walk is also a way to explore nature. Today, it's important to spend time in nature. Maybe you and your family already do. And if everyone has been busy, today is a reminder to be outside for as much time as you are able.
I started talking to the trees and plants when I was a young child. I then began to photograph them. I was only five-years-old. And now, many years later, I still talk to and photograph them. I'm not embarrassed to tell you that, because they offer so much joy, and I'm grateful. I have photographed thousands of plants and landscapes.
Me, at five-years-old. A star magnolia tree, crocus and tulip leaves I photographed on my walk.
Activity: Nature walk. Photograph nature. If this is not possible...no worries. Spend time with some of the trees and plants near where you live. In your yard, neighborhood, or front street. As if you were a "Nature Detective" try and notice everything about them. If you like, sketch it, and when you get back inside, color it with pencils or pastels.
Inspiration: The world of nature.
People around the world are remembering how special nature is right now! Although much of what this virus has created: the stopping of schools, jobs, and travel, Mother Nature is coming back into balance.
GOOD NEWS:
The air, earth and waters are becoming cleaner, and the animals are noticing the difference. We are encouraged to go into nature and are especially fortunate living in Philadelphia, where just a short car-drive away, we can walk among the trees. As we stay six feet away from others, this helps us to pay closer attention to what nature is saying. Listen to the birds, see what else you can spy. Take a journal. Take notes.
Can you do a Tree Pose or a Warrior pose? These poses will help you stay in balance. Do it with someone in your family. Try and do this everyday.
Inspiration: Richard Shilling, Nature Sculptor
Activity: Build a Nature Sculpture
Artists sometimes use nature to create their art. Richard Shilling is one of them. He uses leaves, stones, branches, grass and other natural materials to create works of art. He makes them and places them in nature, the woods, forests, creeks, rivers and other places where the materials come from.
You can make a nature sculpture in your yard, or on the sidewalk - out of the way, so no one steps on it. When using things from nature, it's best to find natural materials in the woods or a yard, where there are plenty of things to choose from. You don't want to take too much from nature. You can also use flowers purchased from a shop.
Nature sculptures are not meant to last forever. The are "impermanent." Even though Richard Shilling knows they will not last forever in the natural world, he still takes his time to create beautiful works of art. Here are some examples.
Indigo Nature Arts: Here are examples of nature sculptures that were made during summer camp. You can get as fancy or as simple as you want. The important thing is to use your imagination and have fun. You can make a nature sculpture the next time you go to the woods. People love finding a nature sculpture surprise!
I told you nature is a HUGE topic! I hope that you share some of your nature ideas with me.
Plant a Garden:
It's the time of year to plant seeds. Maybe your family plants a garden each year. If you don't have a yard, you can plant seeds in pots. A garden takes time and effort, but the rewards are yummy!
Gratitude: I'm grateful for the beautiful world and all the gifts nature provides. What are you thankful for today?
Click on the fish.