Activity: Objects as Art

This activity is inspired by Jimmy Robert’s use of objects as art.

Jimmy uses artworks as props in his performances, and displays props from his performances, as artworks.

This activity will explore creating sculptures using objects we might find at home.

Find a space to create at home. You could use a table, a box or find an unusual space like inside a cupboard or behind a chair.

Collect a range of objects from around your home. This could be toys, cutlery, clothes, or objects from a walk outside, like sticks, pebbles, or leaves.

Try stacking, balancing, or laying them out. Use your objects to explore creating sculptures.

How tall can you build? How wide can you go? How much can you squeeze into a space?

Try lots of different ways to build your sculptures, and if they fall, it’s all part of the fun - just try again!

Make your sculpture to fit the space you found, a really small space, might mean, a really tiny sculpture!

Don’t forget to take a picture or video of your artwork!

An art work using a glove attached to a door handle using a peg, a spoon and a to elephant placed on top. Next to this image is a sculpture made up of an upside down plant pot, a wellington boot, a roll of masking tape, and two knitted bees placed on top of one another.
Two sculptures using a variety of objects including a yellow watering can, a sand castle mould and a yellow spatula.
A large pile of books underneath a wooden table.
Pumpkins placed on top of one another.

Why not try with a different selection of objects? Or in a different space?

Do share on our social media to create a gallery. We would love to see your artwork! #NCmaking

Tips at home:

- Make a clear space to work in.

- Ask grown-ups when collecting objects to make sure they are safe to use in a sculpture.

This activity was created by Play and Learn Facilitator, Ursula Rae.

Getting to know us: Play and Learn Team

Ursula Rae wearing sunglasses on her head and  looking towards the camera in front of a green, leafy background.

Vote for Us! Kids in Museums most Family Friendly Museum Award

If you have enjoyed taking part in any of our digital family activities we would really appreciate you shouting about it! Nominations are open for ‘Kids in Museums:Family Friendly Museum Award 2021”. You can place your vote here. Thank you!

Share Your Feedback, complete our Family Survey

Working digitally, means we miss all those lovely conversations we would usually have with you, sharing ideas, listening, and seeing how you respond to our workshops. It is difficult to get feedback when we don't see you and this would really help.

The survey takes about 10 mins or less to complete and it will really help our team to understand more about what you thought ready for when we are back together at Nottingham Contemporary. You can fill out our survey by clicking here.

We'd love to hear what you think.

Your support is vital

A small one-off or regular donation helps us present free exhibitions, events and education programmes across the city, up and down the UK, and around the world.

Cookie Consent