Introducing AGO Makes!
Stay tuned to #AGOfromHome for art project ideas brought to you by the AGO’s Public Programming & Learning department!
Today, we’re introducing AGO Makes, a new video series coming to a computer or mobile device screen near you – straight from the AGO’s Public Programming & Learning team.
The first AGO Makes video experience features a project all about monochromatic colour schemes. Pulling inspiration from Louise Nevelson’s artwork, Night Zag IV, Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, will guide you through assembling your own monochromatic work. Check it out below:
The AGOinsider spoke to Tiana Roebuck to get the scoop on what else to expect from AGO Makes.
AGO: What type of projects can we expect to see from AGO Makes?
Roebuck: Artmaking is an exciting moment for creativity, play and exploration. When developing a project, those are the driving factors. We’re interested in delving into new skills and also exploring fresh ways of looking at something you’ve seen or tried a million times. Think of the infinite ways artists combine and explore mediums like drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and mixed media – it’s endless. Our projects will cover a wide range of ideas and come from various sources of inspiration, but they will all have that “spark” of creating something new and exciting from your imagination and the world around us.
AGO: How does artwork in the AGO Collection influence the projects your team develops?
Roebuck: We are always inspired by the incredible works in the AGO Collection. The process of connecting the art to artmaking is an exciting one that is also somewhat fluid. Sometimes it’s remembering a favourite work of art and thinking “I’d really like to play with that technique or medium”, other times the project comes first and then a corresponding artwork comes to mind. My favourite is when I can walk around the Gallery and take it all in, letting the interaction of artworks displayed together inspire new project ideas. For now, we are having fun sifting through our digital collection and getting inspired at home.
AGO: Do readers need special materials to participate in AGO Makes?
Roebuck: Not at all! Most of our projects use typical materials you’d find around your home – paper, pencils, scissors, tape, etc. Some will use basic artmaking supplies like markers and paint. The goal is for artmaking to be accessible for everyone who wants to participate.
AGO: Why is artmaking so important right now?
Roebuck: I’ve always found artmaking to be a wonderful place to escape or find refuge when needed. This feels even more important today while most of us are at home and/or disconnected from our regular rhythms and routines. Whatever situation you find yourself in, be it rocking this time solo or surrounded by family or roommates, take a break and get lost in colour, texture and pattern. Use your hands, feet, mind – whatever you have and create something with no limitations. Allow yourself to be transported somewhere else, even just for a moment through the magic that comes from making art.
Remember to visit AGO.ca every week for more art-inspired activities, or dig a little deeper into our Learning page.