Mixed Media Journal — Summer 2024
During our 3 week study abroad in Sicily, we engaged in various projects including ancient wood joinery, mosaic-making, and more, with the two most significant to the course being a continuous observational sketching journal and the creation of a materials index card.
The first project involved maintaining a daily journal, where we were tasked with creating at least two sketchbook spreads each day using drawing, collage, poetry, or other media to reflect on personal experiences, place, and time. This journal allowed for experimentation with different materials and media, enhancing our observational skills and ability to understand our surroundings.
The Material Index Cards assignment asked us to explore the sensory, cultural, and experiential significance of materials in Sicily. We selected one material from the workshops (mosaic or wood joinery) and another from our daily experiences. I chose Sciacca coral, often used in jewelry and decorative pieces, and driftwood from our wood joinery workshop. The project encouraged us to examine how these materials are perceived, used, and valued, and document our findings with visuals, notes, and observations, focusing on their deeper connections to people, history, and place.