I am interested in synanthropes- animals that thrive due to mankind’s impact on biodiversity. Urbanization has been detrimental to many species, but it has also accelerated adaptations and successful symbiosis in some animals living amongst humans. I celebrate the creative effects of our influence on nature in addition to concerning myself with the negative. Synanthrope Stations are sculptural installations equipped to accommodate the seasonal needs of urban dwelling birds. Trash infused bird nests are a common sight in cities and suburban areas, and some researches say that birds benefit from the longevity of synthetic over natural. I will process and organize various man-made materials, taken from litter, and weave it through sculptural steel and ceramic supply stations for birds. By removing trash from a site and transforming it for animal use, I am hoping to initiate other ways of looking at refuse and our responsibility to nature.

On Sunday, June 3rd, 2-3:30PM, families and bird lovers are welcome to “Think Like a Bird” with the visiting artist.  Kamin will guide visitors through a quick walk to collect litter for building their own trash nests. The workshop will also include conversations about the artist’s work, bird architecture, and identifying different species that thrive in the city. The artist will also present participants with a small gift for their nest.  No materials or fees necessary just bring a curiosity for nature!

Calder Kamin (born Austin, TX) is an artist and art administrator in Kansas City, MO. Kamin’s fabricated ceramic fauna illustrate an investigation into our benevolence towards certain species and cultural constructions of nature. Before completing her BFA, for ceramics and art history from the Kansas City Art Institute in 2009, she curated for Red Star Studios, the Kansas City Art Institute’s Ferguson Teaching Collection and off campus galleries. Kamin is a 2011-2012 Charlotte Street Foundation’s Urban Culture Project resident artist, and has returned to KCAI, as staff in Career Services, responsible for the development of the Professional Practice programing. She has shown nationally, and is in several notable collections in Kansas City.

The Synanthrope Station was made possible with design assistance from K. Flecksing Studios, and funds from the ArtsKC Inspiration Grant.