puppets on parade

I am always scanning the local paper for new (usually free) things to do. Art notices, volunteer events, etc. Some of them are so-so, but others, like this one, are really cool.

This weekend, I helped make paper mache puppets for the upcoming Summer Solstice parade at Olbrich Park. The theme is Origin of the Species. 2009 marks the bicentenary of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the publication of his work ‘On the origin of Species

There were artists making the more traditional cardboard formed paper mache, but I helped on a clay version. This is the beginnings of what will be a 10 foot tall Charles Darwin. See the resemblance ?

Soft molding clay is placed over a form made of plastic bags stuffed with newsprint and cans. After the shape is desired, a sheet of plastic is applied and then the layers of paper are applied. When dried, the paper mask can be lifted off the clay form and painted or decorated. The clay can be re-used again and again to make other faces or forms .

Unlike the cardboard method, when using clay, you can really get more detail as seen below in this version of Mother Earth. The parade will sure to be a feast for the eyes and a welcome celebration for glorious summer.

For more info on the June 21 parade, how to help out and a great paper mache paste recipe from artist Laurie Rossbach check out their blog