Great experiences with art don’t always involve a brush, paint or drawing pencil. It is as simple as finding objects from nature.
In 2005, I gathered sand, shells and sticks while on a visit to the Philippines. There are many beautiful beaches in the vast array of islands that make up this tropical country. With miles of white sand, it was intriguing to discover beaches of soft, black sand. Along the South China Sea, in western Luzon, are black shores, the result of ash that had settled on the coastline following the 1991 volcanic eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.
With this black sand (more like gray), small shells and a couple tiny stick fragments , I created an arrangement in a little ceramic tray from Wal-Mart. Changing its form and configuration whenever the mood hits is fun and relaxing .
If you find your own favorite spots for collecting, you could enjoy stirring, swirling and raking a memorable display. At the very least, it makes a great conversation piece.
I love the vivid descriptions of the island and the surrounding along with the history that the island holds.
Love the idea of bringing your vacation back home with you. Some really unique shells you’ve got in that collection!
Love this kind of artwork/decor! You can switch it up everyday and create new designs that fit your mood. Cute little flower too! :p
There is tremendous fun in this. Children, especially,like raking the sand. I use a comb pick and it creates beautiful even designs which you can also twirl into semicircles or rake diametrically. You can create a real beach scene that duplicates the water pushing the sand into ridges.You can you make castles in the sand if you have the patience to work with a little water and even a tiny thimble.
Looks like something for an OCD person, always perfecting, never perfect enough, always changing. On the other hand, someone who would like to lose their self in the hypnotic trance of creation or nerve calming repetition akin to stroking a cat would love this kind of art. In some homes the cat might see additional benefits….. : ]