*Preschool Nature Camp 2010, Turtlewings, Ixelles*

A Journey from Reggio Emilia to Turtlewings Atelier

Introduction to Material Thinking

Material Thinking is an approach to education and creativity that emphasises the use of diverse materials to explore, understand, and express ideas. This concept is deeply rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, which views materials as essential tools for learning and discovery. After my Thesis work I had the honour of visiting Reggio in 2007, while I was testing ideas of educating and designing for children with materials from my home studio. It wasn’t until 2009 when I opened the first Turtlewings Atelier, in Ixelles (a commune of Brussels) Belgium 2009 that I really got a chance to experiment and observe it’s amazing potential. My first atelier was in a small 65m2 store front near a public park after 3 years we moved to Schaarbeek (another commune of Brussels) to a much larger studio 632m2.

In both spaces we embraced this Material Thinking philosophy, using material thinking in education and design with all ages. I slowly developed my own methodology that integrated traditional artistic materials, natural materials, design tools and techniques and reuse materials, creating a rich and multifaceted environment for exploration and creativity.

The Reggio Emilia Approach

The Reggio Emilia approach, founded by Loris Malaguzzi in the Italian town of Reggio Emilia, is renowned for its innovative and child-centered educational philosophy. One of the core principles of this approach is the "Hundred Languages of Children," which posits that children have multiple ways of thinking, playing, and expressing themselves. Materials play a crucial role in this philosophy, serving as tools for communication, exploration, and learning.

In Reggio Emilia classrooms, children are encouraged to engage with a wide variety of materials, from traditional art supplies like clay, paint, and wire to found and repurposed objects. This diversity allows children to explore concepts and ideas from multiple perspectives, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. The environment, often referred to as the "third teacher," is carefully curated to inspire and provoke children's thinking and exploration.

*Nature Camp, 2012 at Turtlewings, Schaarbeek*

Material Thinking at Turtlewings Atelier

At Turtlewings Atelier’s in Brussels, our approach inspired by that of Reggio characterised a deep respect for materials and their potential to inspire creativity and innovation. We believed that materials were not just passive tools but active participants in the creative process, capable of sparking curiosity, exploration, and new ideas.

*Sketch created in 2010 at Turtlewings, Ixelles*

Definition of Turtlewings' Material Thinking Methodology:

Material Thinking at Turtlewings was and still is an educational and creative approach that integrates traditional artistic and natural materials and reused objects to foster exploration, innovation, and a deep understanding of concepts. This methodology views materials as active participants in the learning process, encouraging a hands-on, exploratory approach that inspires creativity and problem-solving.

Core Principles of Turtlewings' Material Thinking:

Diversity of Materials: We use a wide range of materials, from traditional art supplies, natural materials, rare and unique materials, to found and repurposed objects. We then curate these materials to provide a rich and varied environment for exploration.
Hands-On Exploration: Our approach emphasised tactile, hands-on interaction with materials, encouraging participants to experiment, play, and discover through direct engagement.
Interdisciplinary Learning: By integrating materials from different disciplines, we create opportunities for interdisciplinary exploration and learning, fostering a holistic understanding of concepts.
Sustainability and Reuse: We prioritised the use of reused and repurposed materials, promoting environmental consciousness and demonstrating the potential of everyday objects to inspire creativity.
Environment as Inspiration: We designed our Atelier and spaces within to be inviting, inspiring, and conducive to exploration, viewing the environment as an integral part of the learning process.

*Creative REuse Camp 2011, Turtlewings, Ixelles*

Research and Influences

Our approach to Material Thinking was informed by a variety of research and influences beyond the Reggio Emilia approach. Key thinkers and practitioners in the field of art education and material culture have also shaped our methodology:

Tim Ingold: An anthropologist whose work on material culture and the anthropology of making emphasises the importance of materials in the creative process. Ingold's concept of "thinking through making" aligns closely with our belief in the active role of materials in learning and creativity.
Ingold explains “that the act of making, is an inherently mindful activity in which the forms of things are ever-emergent from the correspondence of sensory awareness and material flows in a process of life.”
Elliot Eisner: An art educator whose work highlights the educational potential of the arts and the importance of aesthetic experiences in learning. Eisner's ideas about the cognitive and emotional benefits of engaging with art materials resonate with our approach.
Eisner says “The arts teach students to think through and within a material.”
Material Ecologies: A concept originating in the work of Neri Oxman, that explores the interconnectedness of materials, environments, and creative practices. This perspective informs our emphasis on sustainability and the use of found objects in our projects.
Oxman founded and leads the OXMAN design company in New York City, which has one main goal: to shift the emphasis from material prosperity that asserts a claim to land as a property to a focus on the wellbeing of Earth and all of its various residents.

*Educators Cafe “Exploring Paper and Wire” 2008*

Applications and Impact

Material Thinking at Turtlewings Atelier in Brussels was applied across a wide range of projects and classes, from art workshops to interdisciplinary educational programs. By providing participants with diverse materials and encouraging hands-on exploration, we created immersive experiences that inspire creativity and foster a deep understanding of concepts.

Our tagline at Turtlewings Brussels was DESIGN, THINK & PLAY

At Turtlewings, Brussels our goal was to show that creativity and exploration should know no boundaries. Our atelier was a welcoming space for everyone—regardless of language, culture, or age. We prided ourselves on opening our doors to not only children and educators but also to their families, grandparents, and friends. Our inclusive environment extended beyond traditional educational settings, embracing creatives, makers, thinkers, and artists from all walks of life. We've collaborated with a wide range of partners, including non-profits, museums, schools, businesses, corporations, government entities, and the EU, to create a vibrant community where material thinking thrived. We celebrated diversity and inclusivity, fostering a space where people of all backgrounds can come together to learn, create, and innovate. Our atelier was truly a place for material thinking for all!

Examples of our approach in action include: (click to go to project portfolio page)

Art Workshops: Participants explored concepts through the combination of different materials, experimenting with texture, form, and function to create unique art pieces.
Interdisciplinary Projects: Projects that integrate materials from different disciplines, such as combining scientific specimens with artistic media to explore the natural world.
Sustainability Initiatives: Classes that focus on the creative potential of reused and repurposed materials, promoting environmental consciousness and innovative thinking.

Material Thinking at Turtlewings was and still is a dynamic and evolving methodology that continues to draw inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach and others around the world, while incorporating our own unique perspectives and values. By emphasising the active role of materials in the creative process, we foster a rich and engaging environment for exploration, learning, and innovation. Our approach not only inspires creativity but also promotes a deeper understanding of the world and a commitment to sustainability.

As we continue to develop and refine our methodology, we remain dedicated to creating experiences that inspire wonder, well-being, and a lifelong love of learning.

Material Thinking