Artists & Sense of Place Residency Flying Horses

Teaching artist Jackie Inglefield spent 3 weeks with 2nd – 4th graders from Edward Hynes Charter School: Lakeview to collect discarded plastic bottles and other plastic debris to reuse and recycle into works of art. Inglefield constructed three life-size horse armatures using 14 gauge balling wire for students to build on. Flying Horses is a colloquial term used in New Orleans in reference to carousel horses. Horses are an integral part of New Orleans culture from the 504 Cowboys to horses in annual Mardi Gras parades.

The residency began with a discussion of the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling materials. Students learned about the effects of plastic waste on the environment and how microplastics have infiltrated most aspects of life on Earth. Students also learned about glass recycling. When recycled, glass is turned into sand, which is used to rebuild the fragile coast and wetlands. The rebuilding of wetlands softens storm surge, which threatens our coastal community.

During the first week, students colored plastic water bottles using Sharpies and learned how to create patterns and blend color by layering. Coloring the plastic creates a stained glass effect; when placed under light, it creates colorful reflections and shadows.

Throughout the second week, students learned different techniques to cut and shape the plastic bottles. Some cut their bottles into flowers, while others created a swirl. Using hold punchers specifically designed for little hands, students punched holes into the plastic in preparation for attaching to the armature.

In the final week, students learned sewing techniques to adhere plastic to the armature. Using colorful pipe cleaners, they wrapped and tied their plastic pieces to the horse. Getting creative, some students used pipe cleaners to add bright details to the sculptures.

At the heart of the mission of Ogden Museum of Southern Art is the goal to provide educational opportunities for in-depth exploration of the visual arts and culture of the American South. Since 2001, the Learning and Engagement Department has organized artist-in-residence programs, pairing Southern artists with local schools. Working with elementary school students in the medium of the artist’s choice, the artist spends multiple weeks exploring the influence of geography and sense of place. Upon completion of the residency, the students visit the Museum to view their finished artwork installed in the Education Gallery.