Stackable Rock Art is a type of sculpture made by taking rocks and balancing them on each other. There are several sculptors that use this style to create art in nature. Rock stacking is often looked at as a type of performance art, because it’s not as long lasting as a traditional sculpture. It requires a lot of patience and problem solving to figure out how to stack the rocks so they won’t fall down. The Museum’s exhibition Spirit and Form explores the art of sculpting. Artist Jason Millward is an incredibly detailed sculptor who captures movement in his classical figurative work and abstract carvings. He uses several mediums including bronze and different types of stone in his work. Jason captures his process in a series of videos on our website. He demonstrates how different rocks can look when you put water on them. When he searches for stones for his sculptures, he carries a water bottle with him so he can tell the true color of the stone. This process helps him uncover whether or not the stone will be the right color for his sculpture. Watch his videos and learn more about this artist and his work.
Activity: This week we are creating a stackable rock sculpture! Go on a rock hunt and find some rocks you want to use to create your sculpture. Try and develop a theme with the rocks you choose, looking for similar colors, shapes and textures. You might find Jason’s idea of using a water bottle to find the true color of a stone to be particularly helpful for you!
Materials:
Rocks
Water bottle
Water
Directions:
1 - Go for a hike and search for the rocks you want. Try to notice different shapes, sizes, textures, and colors you may want to use.
2 - When you find your rocks, take your water bottle with water and spray the rocks to see if they really are the color you thought they were. You may be surprised!
3 - Now, get stacking! You can create your sculpture in nature, in your home, or in your yard.
Remember, you’re the artist here! Get inspired, be creative, and, most importantly, have fun!