eLecture: Andrew Goldsworthy

ANDREW GOLDSWORTHY
in his documentary "Rivers and Tides"

Today, it seems that everyone is “going green”. For Andrew Goldsworthy it is more than just a trend, it is the motivation behind his art. Andrew Goldsworthy is a sculptor, photographer, and environmentalist living in Scotland. He is best known for his non-permanent sculptures in nature, but he does permanent pieces as well. In this eLecture, we will discuss Andrew Goldsworthy, his artwork, and the inspiration behind his art.

(Be sure to click on the links and refer to the 'Vocabulary' section if needed!)

"Iris Leaves with Rowan Berries"

Andy Goldsworthy is considered an environmental artist. Environmental art became popular in the late 1960’s and is becoming popular again today. Environmental artists generally aim to improve their own, and possibly others’, relationship with nature. Environmental art can be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. It can be made from any material. However found objects (such plastic bottles) or other natural materials are most common.

Another Example of an Environmental Artist:
John Dahlson, environmental sculptor, made pieces from found objects and natural materials.
Example 1
Example 2



Click on the link and Read "In His Own Words" (toward the bottom of the web page).

"Rowan Leaves & Hole"

EPHEMERAL SCULPTURES

Goldsworthy uses only his natural environment to create his temporary sculptures. He never brings outside materials with him to incorporate into these pieces. Ice, sheep’s wool, leaves, bark, stones and twigs are common materials used in his art. He does not use scissors, glue, tape, or even paint to alter the natural materials. This means that his only tools are those found on his body. His hands, nails, teeth, and sometimes his tongue!

He must deal with the frustrations that will inevitably take place because of the unstable natural environments in which he works. When using leaves and other light objects, his materials can get easily out of place by wind or animals that may be lurking on site. Therefore, because his works are assembled in unpredictable environments, his sculptures are often short-lived.

A photograph is always taken once a temporary piece is completed. Photographs serve as documentation. Each photograph includes the date and location of that particular piece. Sometimes Andy is the only person to ever see the actual sculpture. He allows the environment to naturally break down his art and recycle it back into the earth. Sometimes he will watch the work that he just completed be destroyed naturally. He has said, "There's so many works I've made that the thing that will bring it to life is the very thing that will cause its death."


"Rivers and Tides" documentary clip. Click to see Andy in action!




PERMANENT SCULPTURES

Andy’s recent sculptures have been permanent. He uses tools on some of his permanent sculptures to get the desired shape and consistency that he is seeking. He must alter his materials somewhat because he is creating these to last.

"Roof", 2005"

"Stone Houses", 2004

“Stone Houses” 2004

MORE ARTWORK

"Dandelions & Hole"

"Icicle Star, joined with saliva "

"Lying down on dry earth while rain begins"

"Autumn Cherry Leaves"

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

Some of Andrew Goldsworthy's work is never seen by anyone but him, except for in photographs. Which is art? The photograph or the actual sculpture? Why?

Do you think that he should make all of his sculptures permanent? How would that change his message?

Goldworthy's temporary sculptures are made in rural locations. How do you think his materials would change if he began making art in New York City? What would he use? What would you use? Why?




ACTIVITY

Andrew Goldsworthy has sculpted nature-inspired pieces all over the world. In doing so he has had to work with whatever materials that were available in the environment in which he was working.




Create your own sculpture “Goldsworthy style” using found objects in your own environment.
Your sculpture must be at least 12 inches in diameter. You may use ONE tool that is not found in nature.

Directions:

1. Brainstorm.
• GO OUTSIDE! The best inspiration for environmental artists is in nature!
• What do you find a lot of in your area?

2. Collect your objects.

3. Evaluate your findings.
• Do any of your objects communicate anything about where you live or what you value?
• Are your objects soft? Hard? Long? Short? Sturdy? Fragile?
• Do you want your sculpture to be temporary or permanent?

4. Sketch some ideas for your sculpture.
Pick your favorite. Then…

5. Begin work!



“A lot of my work is like picking potatoes; you have to get into the rhythm of it”
-Andrew Goldsworthy



EXTRA CREDIT:

• Don’t use any tools that are not found in nature. Work like Andrew Goldsworthy!

• Take pictures to document your progress including a photo of your finished sculpture.



VOCABULARY

Ephemeral- temporary, lasting a short time

Found Objects- A natural object or an artifact not originally intended as art, found and considered to have aesthetic value

Environmental Art- art that helps improve our relationship with the natural world. It is made to disappear, transform, or remain constant. Almost always, environmental art conveys a message of preservation or education about natural processes.



REFERENCES

Inspiration for Vocabulary Definitions

"Rivers and Tides" Documentary clip

More Information on Andrew Goldsworthy- "In His Own Words"

What is Environmental Art?- The Green Museum Website

Wikipedia- Andrew Goldsworthy

Andrew Goldsworthy @ the Metropolitan Museum of Art- Stone Houses, 2004

"Rivers and Tides" - Documentary Review