Objective
Each team member contributes by handcrafting a section of the totem pole, symbolizing unity, collaboration, and individuality within the group.
Materials Provided
- Clay
- Tools: carving knives, sponges, texture stamps, and shaping tools
- Workstations (tables with enough space)
- Water for smoothing
- Paint or glazes (if desired, depending on firing method)
- A base for the totem pole structure
- Firing and assembly of final totem pole sculpture will be expertly done by Pittsburgh Pottery
Event Structure
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Introduction (10-15 minutes)
- Welcome participants and explain the purpose of the activity.
- Provide a brief history or background on totem poles as symbolic representations of community, animals, or values.
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Team Assignment & Section Allocation (10 minutes)
- Divide participants into small groups, assigning each group a specific section of the totem pole (e.g., top, middle, bottom).
- Encourage each group to brainstorm the themes or symbols they want to represent in their section (e.g., values, animals, abstract shapes, or something personal).
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Clay Hand-Building Session (1-2 hours)
- Groups work together to build their section using hand-building techniques like coiling, slab building, or sculpting.
- Encourage creativity and communication within teams as they form their designs.
- Provide guidance on joining sections if the totem will be one continuous piece.
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Break/Refreshments (optional, 20-30 minutes)
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Assembly (30-45 minutes)
- Once each group has completed their section, combine the pieces into a cohesive totem pole structure.
- Discuss how the pieces fit together and how the designs complement each other.
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Presentation and Reflection (30 minutes)
- Each group presents their section, explaining their creative choices and symbolism.
- Reflect on the experience, discussing how the process mirrors teamwork and collaboration in the workplace.
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Closing (10-15 minutes)
- Thank everyone for participating.
- If it requires firing, arrange for it to be kiln-fired, and discuss how/when the final piece will be displayed.