In this Art Spark, students carve nesting tunnels into a solid-ish clay block to create a sculptural garden pod that provides habitat for solitary bees and beneficial insects. The finished pieces have usable nesting holes (keep the insides unglazed) and colorful, textured decorations on the outside.
Great For
- STEAM connections (art + environmental science)
- Outdoor garden sculpture and functional ceramics.
- Spring ceramic projects and art camps
Simple Directions
- Form a solid block (grapefruit size) shape into an organic form (log, stone, mound)
- Carve nesting holes with dowels/pencils; do not go through the back, tilt holes up 5-10* and keep the interior of the holes smooth as not to damage the fragile wings of the insects.
- Smooth tunnel interiors; add textures, leaves, or a small overhang roof.
- Dry slowly, bisque fire, glaze exterior only, then glaze fire. (Leave hole interiors unglazed.)
Mayco Glaze Suggestions
- Stroke & Coat-bright colors for flowers and accents
- Foundations-natural stone or bark effects
- Jungle Gems-crystal highlights
