Collecting fall leaves is a fun activity in and of itself. If you want to take it a step further, take a look at the work of artist Raku Inoue. He makes amazing insects and animals out of leaves. Try your hand at creating something with fallen leaves!
Materials:
- fallen leaves
- natural materials (sticks, bark, seeds etc.)
- paper (optional)
- glue (optional)
- drawing materials (optional)
- scissors (optional)
Method:
Gather a variety of fallen leaves in different shapes and textures. Grab some other natural materials like sticks and seeds. Think about what they remind you of—is that maple samara a wing? (A samara is the seed of the maple tree that we often call helicopters). Does the texture of a leaf make you think of a particular animal or insect? Maybe the oak leaf looks like antlers?
After you have inspected your materials, start arranging them to make an animal or insect on your paper. Move them around and try different combinations until you are satisfied with your composition. You can look at photos of animals if it’s helpful, or use your imagination. You can use the scissors to cut some of the leaves into different shapes or use their natural forms.
Once you are happy with your critter you can either glue it down onto paper, or take a picture of it and return the leaves to nature. You can stick exclusively with natural materials like Inoue (sticks and stems make great lines!) or you can use a pen or markers to add some additional decoration.
Send us pictures of your leaf critters!
Artist Spotlight:
Raku Inoue makes art with leaves, bark, flowers and other natural materials. Originally from Japan, Inoue now lives in Canada. Read an interview with him here. See more of his insect inspired artwork here.
