The mission of Elemental Exigency was more than just to experience art one night. We wanted to spark dialogue, education, and activism beyond these doors. Part of that mission was a Family Day where kids could experience the artwork and participate in responding to an environmental threat. Together with the artists, Small Green Door set up stations for families to:
1. Interact with the artwork.
Our curator @karlLeone, led kids on a tour of the artwork where they had the opportunity to play Adrienne Adar’s sonic succulents, turn on the healing tones of Eddy Varakitipongse’s water fountain, and look at the paintings and installations from the rest of our artists.
3. Paint scrolls with featured artist, Dante Marshall.
Under Dante’s “Trees were once dancers” piece, we set up a table, paints, and mini scrolls. Drawing inspiration from the rest of the art in the studio, kids were encouraged to paint their own scrolls.
3. Plant local plants in recycled drinkware.
After opening night, we saved the drinkware to repurpose as pots for pet plants at family day. We rinsed these cups and drilled small holes in the bottom of each of them. We planted nasturtium seeds in them, these local plants grow well in the heat, have bright colorful flowers, and are edible!
Special thanks to the Shumei Center who joined us to spread healing energy and talk about their natural agriculture work. Stay tuned for more environmentally-oriented artistic collaborations at Small Green Door!
