Solar aquariums!

Last autumn we were approached by the Conscious Sisters, a socially engaged arts company based in Plymouth, UK which produces unique art projects working with and for the community. They’ve recently launched their new project, The Gathering, working with Plymouth communities to identify and address a disconnect between residents and Plymouth Sound, celebrating this amazing natural resource and exploring connections to mental health, accessibilty and climate change.

In January Art and Energy’s Jenny and Concious Sisters’ Karen, ran workshop at Brook Green Centre for Learning, working with 10 young people to each create a solar powered illuminated model aquarium. Using Art and Energy’s laser cut plywood kits, the children built and decorated, painting and collaging, then added a simple automata mechanism - when you turn the handle the fish move, and in the evenings the aquarium illuminate!

In our conversations , we also chatted about how the Conscious Sisters could safely and sustainably light a fishy-themed lantern parade. We suggested a move from battery operated tea lights to solar powered garden lights - this small investment would allow them to harness the power of the sun, to re-use the lights at future events, and to gently introduce conversation about solar and other renewable energy. We’re thrilled that they adopted this idea.

We really enjoyed working with the Conscious Sisters, and hope to work with them again soon!