The Things: A Design Workshop to Explore and Create, FR
ESAD Valence-CHAPP Classes
This project is a design workshop inspired by Georges Perec's book, "Les choses" (The Things). It's designed to help children look at everyday objects in a new way and unleash their creativity. By exploring 'things'—not just consumer goods, but objects with their own history and meaning—children will develop critical thinking skills. Through hands-on activities like touching, drawing, cutting, and pasting, they will learn the basics of graphic design and create their own unique works.
Workshop 1: Exploration Through Observation and Sensation
Participants will explore everyday objects by touching them with their eyes closed to perceive their form and texture. They'll practice observing objects from a new perspective by describing what they feel and then drawing based on their sensations. At the end of the session, they will create their own "Things Notebook" to prepare for the next activity.
Workshop 2: Illustration and Typography
Children will share stories about their chosen objects and be inspired by their details to create original letters (typography). They'll also work together on a "drawing tapestry," combining individual drawings into a single large piece, to understand the concept of composition. This workshop encourages them to express their creativity by designing modular typography.
Workshop 3: Experimenting with Printing and Form
Building on their previous designs, children will create stamps using cardboard and foam board and experiment with printing, similar to printmaking. By using the same pattern to create a variety of results, they'll experience the expansive potential of design. This serves as the first step in conceptualizing the format of their final project.
Workshop 4: Completing the Creative Project
This is the time to bring together all the skills and ideas learned so far to complete their own project. They will choose a final format—such as a poster, an object-book, or a flyer—and produce their final work. By collaborating, giving feedback, and discussing their creative choices, they will gain confidence in their artistic vision.
Workshop 5: Sharing and Presenting Projects
This final session is dedicated to sharing and presenting their completed works. Participants will explain their creative process and connect with others, reflecting on the meaning of their projects. It’s an opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the culmination of their creative journey together.
