Two big symbols, heart & hand, came together in one project designed to expand creativity: Heart and Hand Class Project. As a part of my heart and hand theme for the year, I presented a workshop which used one of three tin hands with an attached heart-shaped design.
A classroom is the perfect place to experiment and play. It’s an introduction to multiple interpretations of one idea and a way to celebrate co-creating.
Nine members of the Bead Society of New Mexico produced dramatically different “Heart and Hand,” projects during a bead mosaic workshop.
The group, mostly experienced beaders, brought a variety of styles to the effort. Most participants had not used the medium, Aves two-part apoxie-sculpt. It didn’t matter. It was as if they’d been playing bead mosaic all their lives.
By the end of the evening more than one person commented: “I think I’m addicted to this technique!”
A quiet hum ensued as the group chatted, shared objects and tools, and talked beads.
As facilitator, I answered questions, made suggestions and enjoyed the variety of presentations. My intention was not to provide the pattern, but rather to expand each person’s creativity with the process.
Some, who only work with large size beads, produced small beaded heart centers and marveled at the result. Others chose organic details including found objects such as rocks. Bling, alphabet letters, vintage buttons and rhinestones plus special mementos graced the hands.
Heart and Hand Class Projects
Here are the evening’s renderings:
How will you use group creativity?
It was heady experience to know the group enjoyed the heart and hand class project experimentation. I produced a dramatic interpretation of my own the next day! Read more about my bead mosaic journey.
How will you use group creativity to energize and excite you?
