Between Life and Land: Material introduces artists who create with materials from the earth.. From the immersive installations of Delcy Morelos, to the intricate detail displayed in David Brooks’ cast aluminum forests, this work shows the undeniable beauty in landscapes both near and far while also exploring our connections to place, time, and the larger cosmos.

In this tour, we will discuss artwork and themes from the current exhibition Between Life and Land: Material, currently on view at Kimball Art Center.

Students will first take a closer look at well-known Utah earthworks (Spiral Jetty by Robert Smithson and Sun Tunnels by Nancy Holt), learning about the significance of the land art movement. Then we will share contemporary artists who also create with natural materials.

Together we will reflect on the local geology and explore the meanings evoked by the use of materials like rock, leaves and sand. Expect conversations about Utah landscapes, our connection to nature, visual elements like patterns and symbols and the future of our environment.

Finally, students will take inspiration from the process of artists in the exhibition and create their own artwork using natural materials.

K-1st grade project:
Glue natural materials to create a symbol.

2nd-5th grade project:
Make impressions with natural materials to create a design.

6th-8th grade project:
Create pigments with natural materials and use this to paint a picture.

9th-12th grade project:
Use inks from local pigment to create personal imagery.