Monica Raphael
Lesson: Sustainable Practices
Because my art comes from the earth, I like to take care of the Earth.
–Monica Raphael, Anishinaabe/Sičáŋğu Lakota
Theme: Continuation
Learning Objective: Students will learn that artists like Monica Raphael use sustainable methods to create art. Students will research plants native to their region and create seed bombs using locally sourced wildflower seeds.
Background Information
For thousands of years, people have found innovative and sustainable ways to use the plants and animals indigenous to the land.
Monica is from Peshawbestown, Michigan, a community on the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians reservation in the northwest part of the state. Every year, she returns to that area of northern Michigan to source materials for her art. In May or June, Monica goes into the woods to look for birch trees whose bark is ready to be harvested. A part of her method is to know what she plans to make that year and approximately how much bark it will take. She then only gathers as much as she will be able to use in the next year.
The knowledge of how to remove birch bark without killing the tree is hundreds, if not thousands of years old. When done at the right time of year, in the proper way, the tree is still healthy and the bark grows back in 10-20 years. By harvesting the bark in a sustainable way, Monica ensures that the tree will be able to provide not only for her art but also for the wildlife in the area. Birch trees are food and shelter for local birds, deer, rabbits, butterflies, moths, and a whole host of other animals and insects.
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Monica Raphael, Debwaywin “Truth” Her Berry Fast, 2019. Image courtesy of artist.
Activity
Everywhere you look, people are trying to find ways to make the world we live in more sustainable. It’s something that people of all ages can help with! Much like the birch trees that Monica uses in her art, there are many plants that are indigenous to the area in which you live. Research to see what naturally grows around you. Then, make seed bombs using native wildflower seeds.
Gather your seed mix, several pieces of construction paper or newspaper, a food processor and compost (optional). Begin by cutting or tearing your paper into small pieces, then place them in a small bowl and cover them with water. Let the paper soak for 20-30 minutes. Remove the soaked paper from the bowl and pulse it in a food processor. After the paper has been shredded, remove it and mix in your seeds and compost (if you’ve chosen to use it). Form small balls about ½ – 1 inch in diameter and let them harden overnight. Tip: if the paper pulp is too dry to form a ball, add a bit more water.
Sow seed bombs around your yard or in a pot or share them with friends and neighbors. Your wildflowers can also become food and shelter for local animals and insects.
Words you need to know
Sustainable
Something that can be maintained over time at a steady level.
Indigenous
Someone or something native to a certain environment or region.
All Lessons By Monica
Lesson: Using Natural Dyes
Lesson: Sustainable Practices
