Crafting Shadows 🌒 ✨ 🖤

Craft an object, capture its silhouette, and let the shadow tell the story.

What will I need?

1. Materials to craft your object (paper, cardboard, wire, natural items, etc.)

2. A light source (lamp, flashlight, or sunlight)

3. A surface or wall to cast the shadow on

4. A camera or smartphone to document the shadow

Steps:

1. Choose your materials and craft an object.

2. Position the object between the light source and a surface or wall.

3. Adjust the object and light source until a clear and interesting shadow is cast.

4. Document only the shadow using a camera or smartphone.

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Tips, Guidance, Inspiration, and Science

Want to keep going?

1. Craft multiple objects and see how their shadows interact.

2. Experiment with colored lights or transparent colored materials to cast colored shadows.

3. Use the shadows in a storytelling manner, maybe they represent something in a larger narrative.

Help! I'm stuck!

1. Start simple. Even the shadow of a paper cutout can be intriguing.

2. Experiment with the angle and distance of the light to alter the shadow's size and sharpness.

3. Consider the time of day if using sunlight; early morning and late afternoon will produce longer shadows.

4. Think abstractly. The shadow doesn't have to be a direct representation of the object.

What's the science?

Categorizing things in a new way is a key to creativity. Kelly, N., & Gero, J. S. (2015).

Standing on the shoulders of giants

Big thanks to our friends at Another Limited Rebellion for this activity idea. If you’re looking to help your team be more creative at work, they’re here to help! 

"Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you."

- Walt Whitman.