Feb 18, 2022 Activities & Education This activity is inspired by Delita Martin’s work Sisters. Learn more about this artwork and get a little messy making your own mixed media piece. Look Closer: Delita Martin, Sisters, 2014, mixed media on paper, 78 7/8 x 51 7/8 x 2 1/4 in. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2021.45. Take a look at Sisters by Delita Martin. What things can you see that show the friendship between these two women? Notice the bowl one of the women is holding. This bowl is a symbol of giving and nurturing. A symbol is an object that represents something else, like a feeling, memory, or event. For example, a bowl might be used to feed someone you care about. Observe the textures and patterns in this work. They are present in the background, but also weave over the figures. These patterns are inspired by the history of Black quilting traditions. Quilting has traditionally been a way for Black Americans to not only create functional, comforting items, but also to express themselves artistically. This work does not show specific people, but instead highlights the connection and identity of Black women. Activity: Make an artwork about friendship! Materials needed: Paper Scissors Sharpie Soft pastels Hole punch Painter’s tape Yarn Instructions: Step 1: On a strong piece of paper, make a layer of tape, overlapping it slightly. Create an area big enough to create a drawing on. Step 2: Think of an object that shows love and care, similar to the bowl Delita Martin used. This can come in many shapes and forms. I chose a vase with flowers because we often buy flowers to show appreciation for the people we love. Have you ever received flowers? How did that make you feel? Step 3: After drawing directly on the tape, peel all the tape off in one sheet and use the scissors to cut out your drawing. Step 4: Press your sticker onto your paper. After you have placed this, use the hole punch to add holes around the edges of the paper. This will allow you to add string into your art, just like Delita Martin. Step 5: Using the soft pastels, add a variety of colors onto your paper surrounding your sticker. Now use your finger to blend all the color together. Step 6: Use the string and thread it through each hole. Tie a knot at the end to keep the string in place. Now you have a finished mixed media piece! Have fun creating! Written by Marlie Allgood, art instructor, Crystal Bridges.
