Layers- Northwest Reno Library Workshop and the NAC BRX Conference in Ely, NV

 

Families attended a workshop in Reno, NV, where they created "Gelli" plate monotypes. They donated some of the monotypes to the project. Artists then in Ely finished the panels with collaging and drawing. Artists: Anna Newman, Ashley Brock, Candace Garlock, Cesar Piedra, Chase R. McCurdy, Gail Rappa, Jacci Turner, Jack Taylor, Kat Galli, Katie Karnehm-Esh, Liz Woolsey, Michelle Graves, Robin Slonina, Robyn Jordan, Steve Dudrow, Vanessa Maciel 

Emsley Lewis and Candace Garlock "teachers"

Families ready to start playing with the Gelatin printing process at Northwest Reno Library, April 26, 2025.

The mantra of the Honeycomb Project is “a metaphor for interconnectedness.” These art gatherings blend playfulness with a willingness to engage with unfamiliar materials and processes. This organic community formation mirrors the structure of a honeycomb, where each hexagonal cell represents individual experiences and relationships that contribute to a greater, interconnected system.

​The workshops serve as gatherings for community members, akin to bees uniting in a hive. These events create spaces for sharing ideas, stories, and emotions, fostering an environment where connections can flourish. When people come together, they generate moments of serendipity—the unexpected joys and discoveries that arise from the collision of diverse perspectives. This element of surprise is vital, often leading to new friendships, collaborations, and insights that may not have surfaced in isolation. Just as the hexagonal cells of a honeycomb are interconnected, human relationships develop through shared experiences and mutual understanding. These connections enrich our lives and enhance the overall vitality of the community. When individuals feel connected, they are more inclined to engage, support one another, and work toward common objectives.

​During our time at the Northwest Reno Library and the Postal Palace in Ely, the element of “play” added depth to this metaphor, highlighting that connection and discovery can be both joyful and spontaneous. At the Northwest Library, families experimented with gelatin plates, while at the Nevada Arts Council BRX gathering, artists enjoyed collaging alongside a game of Bingo. This playfulness fostered creativity, enabling individuals to explore ideas without the pressures of expectation or judgment. Within the context of the Honeycomb Project, play inspires innovative approaches to problem-solving and community building, encouraging participants to experiment and co-create in a lively environment.

In conclusion, the dynamic interplay of gatherings, serendipity, connection, and play reflects the intricate design of a honeycomb, where each individual contributes to a larger ecosystem. The Honeycomb Project embodies this metaphor, underscoring the significance of place as a nurturing ground for these elements to thrive, ultimately leading to vibrant, interconnected communities. -Candace Garlock

Anna Newman at Nevada Arts Council BRX "Honeycomb Project" workshop in Ely, NV May 8, 2025

Anna Newman's relief prints, stamped and then cut out and collaged onto the panels.

Kat Galli, Liz Woolsey, and Steve Dudrow at Nevada Arts Council BRX "Honeycomb Project" workshop in Ely, NV May 8, 2025

Michelle Graves at Nevada Arts Council BRX "Honeycomb Project" workshop in Ely, NV May 8, 2025

Cesar Piedra, Ashley Brock, and Chase R. McCurdy at Nevada Arts Council BRX "Honeycomb Project" workshop in Ely, NV May 8, 2025

Gail Rappa and Katie Karnehm-Esh at Nevada Arts Council BRX "Honeycomb Project" workshop in Ely, NV May 8, 2025