Ira Tattelman, organizer and lead facilitator, answers questions about FOUND, the community-based found-object sculpture workshops and exhibitions program.

What is FOUND?

I wanted to do something special for Earth Day and get the community involved. As an artist, I knew it could have fun making temporary sculptures out of found objects and put them on display. Luckily, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities accepted my proposal and provided funding.

Where are the workshops located?

Alethia Tanner Park is a relatively new public park in the neighborhood of Eckington. They have picnic tables and benches that will comfortably accommodate our workshops. If it rains, we will move to a nearby community room.

How can I get there?

The park is located along the Metropolitan Branch Trail. You can come by bike, car, or Metro. It is located between the NOMA and Rhode Island Avenue Metro red line stations.

Is there parking in the neighborhood?

Yes, there is street parking in the neighborhood. Harry Thomas Way NE runs right along the park but has paid parking on Saturdays.

What is a found-object sculpture?

Sculpture that uses objects that are reimagined as sculpture—found things, discarded items, recycled items, things destined for a landfill like plastic and electronics, for instance. The goal is to use materials that others think of as useless and remake into something different, something creative, and something artful.

Do I have to register to attend?

Yes. You have to complete and sign an authorization form prior to participation in the workshops. Each person that participates must complete the authorization form. If you are a minor or are bringing a minor to the events, you must complete their authorization form and verify you are their legal guardian. This form must be completed prior to the day of your attendance at the workshop(s). 

WORKSHOPS

How will the workshops be structured? 

There are four facilitators that will attend all three workshop days. Each will take over a picnic table and host a workshop. They each have a different approach to found object sculpture and will provide you will hands-on instructions. People can stay in one place or move from table to table.

How will the facilitators work with us? 

Each facilitator will lead with their own approach. We want to bring out your creative side and allow you to discover how best you want to work and what you want to make. Some participants will work more individually, and some will prefer to work with a group.

Do we need to bring our own found objects?

There will be some found materials at the workshops, but please feel free to bring some of your own, too. We believe you will feel more comfortable working with materials that you have collected or mean something to you.

Can we make our own sculpture or are we working in a group?

We are open to many different possibilities. We want you to feel comfortable. Whether that translates to working on your own or in a group, we welcome an approach that is fun and satisfies your creative urges.

Do we need to attend all 3 workshops?

We ask that you attend at least one workshop. We would like you to finish the sculpture you have started so if that requires attendance at a second or third workshop, we hope you’ll come back.

Are the workshops outdoors? What if it rains?

The workshops will be outdoors. If it rains, we will move the workshop into a community room near the park. 

What happens to the sculptures we’re working on between workshops?

The sculptures will be stored locally until the next workshop or the exhibition days. After the exhibition, you are free to take the sculptures home.

Can we take our sculpture home and work on it?

If you would like more time, you are free to take the sculpture home. But you are required to return the sculpture at least five days prior to the first exhibition date.

EXHIBITIONS

Why are there 3 exhibition days?

We wanted more people to have the chance to see the sculptures. We planned three days to allow for an opening ceremony to celebrate Earth Day, an artist talk, and a closing event.

Are they in the same place as the workshops?

The exhibitions take place in Tanner Park as well. The exhibition will be set up along the bike path.

Who will set up our work for display?

A team of artists will set up the work for display. If you want to help, please let us know.

Can we take our sculpture home after the last exhibition date?

Yes, you can take your sculpture home at the end of the last exhibition day.

How is the Earth Day exhibition different from the other two? What is the ceremony going to be like?

The Earth Day exhibition will include a dedication ceremony, speeches, and information tables from community organizations focused on recycling, the parks, and the arts. 

The second exhibition day includes artist talks, and the third exhibition day is more informal with a short closing ceremony.