For several days in May, 1,500-plus children in Hamburg Germany sculpted and created structures out of 885 cubic feet of clay in Schanzenpark, a huge greenspace used for rock concerts and other events.
The idea for the project was the brainchild of artist and architect Nepomuk Derksen, the head of the Bunte Kuh Association. For the past 20 years, he and his wife Karen have provided children with the opportunity to express their ideas with clay and be recognized for their efforts through the association. Awards are given to the children who can work cooperatively.
"This construction site fills the children with pride in their accomplishments," said Derksen.
"At last, something constructive for children that doesn't cost anything!" said Daniela Z, a single mother with two sons (four and six years old). "We love to come to social activities because participation is free of charge." This family participates in such activities because the youngsters don't like to destroy things. Here they can employ their abilities to create something.
Each project costs about US$31,000 (20,000 Euros), which equates to about US$15.70 (10 Euros) per child. The association raises all monies from sponsors, local governments, and through competitions. Donations are also accepted by this non-profit organization.
One group of children sculptured an 11.5 ft. tall ballerina with a wide swinging skirt, which the children climbed on and crawled under.
"I made the dents!" yelled Paul, a blond toddler of about four, pointing at the many circles and indentations that could be seen on the skirt of the clay ballerina.
"Did you also help?" someone asked elementary student Celin. She pointed at a bathtub that was adorned with the head of an elephant with a long trunk. She responded, "I made the border of the elephant bath tub, but not by myself."
Next to the bathtub were a robot and a bull. They had long, half-round, hollow legs that were big enough for the children to stand inside.
On the first day, the children designed models of their structures. Experts in structural design, including architects, explained to the children what was doable and what was not. Three nine-year-old girls designed a ballerina. When it came to the position of the arms they were at a loss. They said, "How are we going to do this?" Nepomuk Derksen suggested, "Why don't you dance for a moment?" The girls did a short dance and then knew exactly how to proceed.
In the mornings, students from elementary schools, nursery schools and kindergartens worked with the clay. The older children joined in the afternoon. Soon, a group of 1,500 to 2,000 big and little builders were working together on the projects.
The children were given 12 days to work with the clay and build the sculptures. Then, they proudly presented their collectively built artworks to their families and friends on a Sunday afternoon. They truly achieved something outstanding–grown-up sized structures that were sturdy enough for people to walk on.
Social and Cultural Adaptation
While working with the clay the children were learning about team building as they obtained the clay, designed and made models of the structures, pounded the clay with their fists to firm up the structures, and when they smoothed and decorated the completed structures.
Every child found a place to work and try out his/her abilities. Each saw and experienced what they could accomplish. The children worked hand in hand, older children with younger children, and with children of all different skin colors.
"The clay building material forms social and cultural adaption," said Karen Derksen. It fosters social qualities and a more inclusive society. Even some of the parents participated with their children. The feeling of togetherness is felt when the mother's hands are just as dirty as the daughter's."
German Children Awards Support the Project
On May 20 actor Marek Erhard kneaded and pounded the clay along with the children. "I will gladly get my hands dirty for such a fantastic activity," said Erhardt with a laugh in his voice. He came as the godfather of the 2008 German Children's Award.
This is not the first time the Hamburg Architectural Project was recognized. In 2007, it received the German Children's Award that recognizes activities specifically for children.
Bringing Something New to the World
Opportunities to do something out of the ordinary are rare for children. "Yet, it is the duty of children to bring to the world something new," said Derksen. "And it is the duty of the grown-ups to provide them with the framework."
Children can immediately learn a lot from the clay projects. "Children are world champions in the field of learning. Therefore, we feel great urgency in having the children develop something new."
The sculptures were removed on May 31 to make way for other activities in the park.
The next clay art activity is scheduled for September in Great Mountain Street (Grossen Bergstrasse), Hamburg, West Germany.
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