Open Access: The Beyondness of Bees
Liz Hoggarth & Sue Brisco
About the project
Wildside Activity Centre is an environmental and adventurous activity centre in Wolverhampton. This project takes bees as its inspiration using microscopes, drawing, thread and stitch to go beyond the surface to observe and make images of the beauty of the microscopic world of these endangered insects.
“Our principal purpose is to provide a local resource which offers environmental and adventurous activities to get people outdoorsand reconnect them with nature. We work with all ages and abilities to offer health-giving activities, challenge, learning and personal development. Throughout we try to foster respect and care for the environment. We are uniquely placed to reach people who do not engage directly with any art form.”
In this project, science will meet art to look beyond the surface to see the powerful images of structure, colour and form in the aesthetics of the microscopic world. Participants might observe the compound eye of the bee, or the hairs that carry pollen grains or the translucent, architectural detail of the wings. This enables people to see the unseen elements of something they are very familiar with and to portray what they see in their own way. The project will progress through observation with microscopes to drawing and stitching to make new images. The art pieces will be combined for an exhibition which will involve a wider audience in the unexpected use of multi-media art and the wonder of bees.
“We are delighted to welcome back to Wildside as her last art project inspired us all. This time we have a new dimension with the talents of Elise Stewart and her colleagues from the Embroiderers’ Guild. What a way to celebrate how much we need bees!” Liz Hoggarth, Manager, Wildside Activity Centre.
EVENTS
Microscope drawing and stitch studies of Bees
Science meets art to look beyond the surface to see the powerful aesthetics of the microscopic world of bees. Observe the compound eye, or the hairs that carry pollen grains or the translucent, architectural detail of the wings. Explore these unseen elements through the microscope eye-piece and make new images with an intriguing abstract aesthetic through drawing and stitch. The art pieces will be combined for an exhibition which will involve a wider audience in the unexpected use of multi-media art and the wonder of bees.
Microscope drawing workshop
Thursday 1st November, 2018 - 10.30am-12.30pm
Stitch Workshop
Wednesday 5th December, 2018 - 10am-12.30pm
Microscope drawing workshop
Sunday 20th January, 2019 - 10.00am-12.00pm
Stitch Workshop
Sunday 27th January, 2019 - 10am-12.30pm
To book a place call Wildside 01902 572240. Suitable for adults and children (age 8 and over). £4 per participant.
Facebook: @WildsideActivityCentre
Website: www.wildsideac.co.uk
Address: Wildside Activity Centre, Hordern Rd, Wolverhampton WV6 0HA