Andy Goldsworthy is a British sculptor whose art is made entirely out of materials found in nature.

His works are site-specific: they are meant to exist in a certain place and are made from the materials he finds in that place, like leaves, sticks, ice, mud and rocks. Many of his works last for only moments before melting in the sun or being swept away by the wind or a river. Goldsworthy uses photography to capture these fleeting works of art before they disappear.

Watch Andy Goldsworthy create a sculpture using only fallen tree branches in a river near his home in Scotland.

Watch him create rain shadows using only rain and his own body, in a process captured by photography.

Andy Goldsworthy creates art in nature with materials found nearby. Inspired by Goldsworthy’s work, head outdoors and look around for a place for your artwork. When you’ve found a place that inspires you, create a nature sculpture using materials you can find around you.

• Where will you build your sculpture?
• What materials can you find in the surrounding area to include in your artwork?
• How can you draw inspiration from the place you’ve chosen? What colors, patterns, and textures can be a part of your work?
• Will you need to connect materials together? How will you do it?

Remember, many of Goldsworthy’s works aren’t meant to be permanent, or even to last for more than a few moments. Use a camera to take a picture of your artwork before it disappears in the elements.

Head outside and start looking for your inspiration! Check out the image gallery for some tips and ideas to get you started.

As you’re creating, remember to be mindful of other people’s property, and don’t take anything from nature that will harm a living plant or animal.

When you’re finished with your nature sculpture, snap a photo and send it to us at socialmedia@kid-museum.org.