Every year, Franklin Chthonics attempts to emulate the methods and the humanist message of Andy Goldsworthy with a weekend of experiments in the re-ordering of “nature”. Goldsworthy’s interventions with plants, earth and water, accomplished almost entirely with his hands, invariably create startling lines, forms and ephemeral events. This year, our undertakings will likely involve sculpture building in the bluestone quarry, the massing of enormous hydrangea blossoms, and the spanning of a creek with river stone.

Also anticipated is a novice-friendly test-run of a five-acre labryrinth cut into a field of goldenrod (non-allergenic, by the way). The Mazyrinth will eventually be the site of a very challenging team game that will test the endurance, mental concentration and tactical ingenuity of players. \\\\[Save the dates of Oct 12-14 and Nov 9-11 for full Mazyrinth activations)

Honoring Goldsworthy with a respectable effort of imitation is the sole purpose of the weekend and all participants are asked to commit to this goal. With that understood, there will be a huge bonfire, large amounts of exciting food, swimming if conditions permit, and a showing of Leaning Into the Wind, the most recent film documenting Andy Goldsworthy’s work and ideas.

Other notes:

-Indoor sleeping arrangements are available for up to 30 participants

-Smart phone and laptop use will be lightly restricted to reduce distractions from the “hive”.

-All participants will be asked to help sign up for a shift gathering materials, cleaning and cooking.

-No BYOB; lite alcoholic beverages will be provided gratis