Ira Tattelman, organizer and lead facilitator, answers questions about FOUND, the community-based found-object sculpture workshops and exhibitions program.

What is FOUND?

I wanted to do something special for Earth Day and get the community involved. As an artist, I knew it could have fun making temporary sculptures out of found objects and put them on display. Luckily, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities accepted my proposal and provided funding.

Where is the workshop and exhibition located?

Alethia Tanner Park is a relatively new public park in the neighborhood of Eckington. They have picnic tables and benches that will comfortably accommodate our workshop. If it rains, we will move to a nearby community room.

How can I get there?

The park is located along the Metropolitan Branch Trail. You can come by bike, car, or Metro. It is located between the NOMA and Rhode Island Avenue Metro red line stations.

Is there parking in the neighborhood?

Yes, there is street parking in the neighborhood. Harry Thomas Way NE runs right along the park but has paid parking on Saturdays.

What is a found-object sculpture?

Sculpture that uses objects that are reimagined as sculpture—found things, discarded items, recycled items, things destined for a landfill like plastic and electronics, for instance. The goal is to use materials that others think of as useless and remake into something different, something creative, and something artful.

Do I have to register to attend?

Yes. You have to complete and sign an authorization form prior to participation in the workshop. Each person that participates must complete the authorization form. If you are a minor or are bringing a minor to the events, you must complete their authorization form and verify you are their legal guardian. This form must be completed prior to the day of your attendance at the workshop. 

WORKSHOP

How will the workshop be structured? 

There are four facilitators that will attend the workshop. Each will take over a picnic table and host a workshop. They each have a different approach to found object sculpture and will provide you will hands-on instructions. People can stay in one place or move from table to table.

How will the facilitators work with us? 

Each facilitator will lead with their own approach. We want to bring out your creative side and allow you to discover how best you want to work and what you want to make. Some participants will work more individually, and some will prefer to work with a group.

Do we need to bring our own found objects?

There will be some found materials at the workshop, but please feel free to bring some of your own, too. We believe you will feel more comfortable working with materials that you have collected or mean something to you.

Can we make our own sculpture or are we working in a group?

We are open to many different possibilities. We want you to feel comfortable. Whether that translates to working on your own or in a group, we welcome an approach that is fun and satisfies your creative urges.

Is the workshop outdoors? What if it rains?

The workshop will be outdoors. If it rains, we will move the workshop into a community room near the park. 

What happens to the sculptures we’ve completed?

The sculptures will be exhibited right after the workshop in the park.

Can we take our sculpture home?

We encourage you to take your sculpture home after the exhibition.

EXHIBITION

What do I need to know about the exhibition?

After the workshop, your work must remain on site for the exhibition to the public in Tanner Park. Your work will be displayed on benches and tables at the workshop site.

Do I need to stay for the exhibition?

It is not a requirement that you stay for the exhibition, but we encourage you to do so. It is a great opportunity to talk to the other participants as well as show off the work and talk about the sculpture you’ve created to the public.

Can we take our sculpture home after the exhibition?

Yes, you can take your sculpture home at the end of the exhibition day.