Artwork by Franke James
Franke’s tools aren’t the usual ‘home improvement’ equipment like hammer and nails. The Toronto based artist and activist is committed to ‘bothering our green conscience’ by using her wit and imagination.
‘Going Green’ is a hot topic in education these days. Every school has a ‘Green Team’ and the subject has become part of the new curriculum. In 2007, Franke created a very popular workshop on Six Tools to Make Climate Change Art. Her colourful visuals are infused with symbols and words that young and old can relate to. Franke points out that art is about using our voice and we are all capable of making changes by sharing our ideas with friends, family and beyond. She takes a huge topic, breaks it down into small pieces and creates easy to follow steps … stuff that everyone can do. A truly ‘userfriendly’ green toolkit!
Here is something fun and creative for you. In Richmond Hill, on Mill Street at Trench Street, there is a little art gallery at the Mill Pond. This weekend (Nov 5th and 6th)between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, there is an art show and sale. There are media and art lessons for adults and children alike. There is free parking and refreshments. Come and enjoy other artist’s creations and spend a little time walking around the Mill pond while you are there. It could be a very enjoyable experience.