The Second Nature Project: Sowing Ideas and Seeds through Object and Action
The intention of this writing and the Second Nature project is to increase propinquity between nature and culture by inciting the process of anthropochory through object and action. The objects take on the form of adornment that function to carry seeds and are worn during dispersal happenings set in public spaces chosen to reach a cross section of the public in a democratic way. The research includes an analysis of artists and designers who employ the materials of plants and/or seeds including artists from the Earth Art movement, contemporary social practice-based artists, designers and craft-based makers. The theory of jewelry and how it relates to the work is also explored.
The research examines biologically ingrained phenomenon that contribute to the human proclivity toward nature. The rational, process and development of the Second Nature project is addressed, and its first projects are analyzed largely through empirical evidence supported by lively photographic documentation. The evidence thus far supports that idea that Second Nature is successful in sowing ideas but could benefit from more time and research in the form of additional seed dispersal happenings. While the project is still in its infancy, it appears as if the structure around which the project is built (people, plants, place) is both strong and adaptable and has proved to be exciting and thought provoking for myself, the originator, and the participants alike.
Documentation Photo: Second Nature dispersal happening along Max line, Portland, Oregon and surrounding area. May 10th, 2012. Photograph by Catherine Doyle.
Documentation Photo: Second Nature dispersal happening along Max line, Portland, Oregon and surrounding area. May 10th, 2012. Photograph by Catherine Doyle.
Documentation Photo: Second Nature dispersal happening along Max line, Portland, Oregon and surrounding area. May 10th, 2012. Photograph by Catherine Doyle.
Documentation Photo: Second Nature dispersal happening along Max line, Portland, Oregon and surrounding area. May 10th, 2012. Photograph by Catherine Doyle.
Documentation Photo: Second Nature dispersal happening along Max line, Portland, Oregon and surrounding area. Sprinkling chamomile seeds in neglected land at a Max stop. May 10th, 2012. Photograph by Catherine Doyle.
Sunflower seed dispersal necklace worn at site of fifth dispersal happening: 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Dispersal happening was set during gallery opening.
Detail: Sunflower seed dispersal necklace worn at site of fifth dispersal happening: 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Dispersal happening was set during gallery opening. Photo by Jody Dunphy
Detail: Sunflower seed dispersal necklace worn at site of fifth dispersal happening: 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Dispersal happening was set during gallery opening. Photo by Jody Dunphy
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Documentation Photo: Sunflower seed dispersal happening during Practicum Exhibit opening, May 18th, 2012, 902 SW Morrison St Portland, Oregon. Photo by Britney Chavez
Installation View: Practicum exhibit and backdrop for sunflower dispersal happening
