Sound Idea for Creating Musical Sculptures
Young creative at Ramsgate Arts Primary have explored the sonic possibilities of using found materials from the coast to make music.
The year 4 groups have been working with Molly Clark from the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury, to design, make and play their sound sculptures.
During the workshops they discussed the types of materials that could be found along the shoreline, how they felt and how their shapes differed, and what sort of sounds they could make with them.
They considered shells, rocks, driftwood, litter and debris such as bottle tops and ring pulls, and also used 
fabric, threads, string, wool, wire and beads as their sculptures took shape.
As part of the process the pupils also listened to Molly’s own audio clips for inspiration and wrote down all their ideas, creating images with their words.
The project was the first part of the term’s topic Sound for the year group and Head of School Nick Budge said it was a perfect way to launch their learning experience.
He added: “Our children worked well with Molly and they shared ideas with her and were enthusiastic about the different types of sound sculptures they could create from found objects.
“Molly was a great motivator with the pupils and we hope this link with UCA could be the beginning of a fruitful liaison that can benefit their students through practical experiences and give our children further enrichment with their learning.
“At RAPS we have developed good relationships with a range of differing arts institutions and groups over the years, and this latest link is another that can help broaden our pupils’ development, skill sets and enjoyment.”
Molly, a 20 year old Fine Arts student, said working at RAPS was a valuable experience and she added: “The RAPS sessions have helped me explore a different way of taking my practice and gave me the challenge of adapting my ways of working to a different audience.
“Working with the children a brilliant experience. They exceeded my expectations and responded to the tasks I set in very successful and innovative ways. They are so creative and enthusiastic.
“Doing these workshops allowed me to present my ideas and materials to the pupils and see how they interpreted it from their uniquely creative point of view. Helping them practically construct the pieces also allowed me to exchange skills such as knotting, sewing, and crochet, as well as ideas.
“I draw lots of inspiration from the coast and materials found there, creating sculptures based around these natural forms. At the moment I am particularly interested in sounds that are produced by natural processes.
“I have been exploring ways of re-creating these sounds within sculpture, for example making rattles and
wind chimes from shells and shingle, allowing my audience to interact and activate my work.”
Ramsgate Arts Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust together with Upton Junior School, Broadstairs, and Chilton Primary, Ramsgate.
For more information contact RAPS Head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847