Nature and Clay in a Healing Environment

When I started reading about the criteria for the weekly creative blogs, I naturally started thinking that I would want the creative process I use to be with clay and sculpture.  The whole idea of creating a sculpture out of clay in a medical facility with the purpose to add an artistic aspect to the overall healing environment is new for me, however I find it to be very exciting and challenging.  So as I was reading about the different factors that contribute to the healing environment in week one I was really drawn to the aspect of nature and the healing gardens. 

I keep getting the idea of a large tree made out of clay that is fired in a kiln. The tree would be made out of cylinders that are thrown on the pottery wheel and after thay are fired glued or cemented together.  Each section would be sculpted with tree bark like texture.  The cylinders would be made so the lips would fit inside each other to be put together to make one large tree trunk.  It could be for the outside but I keep seeing it inside the facility so the main structure the gesteral trunk and main branches would be made out of clay and fired but the finish would be a combination of paint, fabric and silk plants.  The clay tree structure would have holes put in the ends of the branches so when finishing the sculpture silk branches and leaves could be added. So it would have the feeling of bringing nature inside and being alive.

The tree would be a combination of similar colors and tree textures but it would also have bright colors and new textures that are a surprise and draw attention.  Hanging from the branches would be ornament like pottery angels, words, the patients names, these would be made by the patients and families with clay, paint and fabric. The tree would be called "The Tree of Life" and would represent life for each patient and hope for them and their families. 

I also have the idea of these trees of life on a smaller individual scale as a healing creative process/project for the patients and their families.  The smaller trees they would make with clay, paint, fabric and silk plants along with the ornaments of their guardian angel, healing words etc.  I see them mounted on a base that incorporates lighting and even healing music at their bedside.  Their very own personal tree of life to help them in the healing process.  This is something they can take home with them.

I started getting all these ideas last week as I was contemplating on nature, clay and what to blog. I was really inspired and encouraged when I read this week, Marlene's discussion reply on the large tree with masks hanging from the branches to help with stopping the spread of influenza.  I found it to be interesting we had both had such similar ideas, but yet with a slightly different focuses on healing and safety.