Clay is
earth
Clay is a
teacher
Clay is
magical
The Inspiration
Our footsteps are part of a collective journey on this Earth. With this project, I wanted to help residents of Etobicoke to connect with our community, honour our ancestors and the original people of this land, as well as reflect on how we can create a better future.
The Result
Over 140 clay shoes were made and returned to nature as part of this collective ephemeral art installation.
Platform
Project was adapted to be completed remotely. Sculpture kits including one ton of clay and Forest Edge seeds were delivered to Etobicoke families.
My Role
Program Curator, community outreach, lead artist
Supported by
Produced with support from the Toronto Arts Council. #poweredbyTAC
Location
Etobicoke Community
Media
Clay, Forest Edge seeds, and found natural materials. Forest edge seeds were specially mixed for this project. The seeds will grow with our hopes and dreams for the future.
Participants
Children, youth, parents, and elders living in the Etobicoke. Participants who identify as members of equity seeking groups were particularly encouraged to apply.
Dates
Summer, fall, winter 2020
Learn about the land where you live
Chief Stacey Laforme acted as a friend of this project, providing inspiration for its artistic content. He shared this poems and wisdom with the participants. Chief Stacey Laforme encourages us to restore our connection to the land and to protect it. Listen to his storytelling session about his nation and its relationship to the land.
The power of nature
Left to decompose throughout the fall and winter, the seeds will then grow anew the following spring. This new growth will show nature’s ability to restore itself despite our human impact. Together, we can help nature regain its strength.
Explore the properties of clay
Clay has been part of human culture for thousands of years! From finding the right tools to making a clay-slip, these videos show you how to explore this grounding material and craft a clay shoe.
How to Videos
1. Find Tools in your Home
2. Setting up a Clay Atelier
3. Health and Safety
4. Protect your Drain
5. How to Make Clay Slip
6. Slip and Score
7. Clay has No Limits
