IG: @bitsandpiecesbyabby

Petting Zoo of the Unexplained.

Petting Zoo of the Unexplained is an interactive installation that allows reignite their empathy for earth’s wildlife, through play, and revitalize their love of nature. I have discovered that play is the way that children communicate their experiences and trauma, even after they have learned to speak. Play is a vital part of childhood development, assisting children in learning empathy, compassion, critical thinking, problem solving, and many other important skills. Play gives children a voice, an outlet, and an education. Play can be used as both a teaching implement, and a tool for healing mental health. Therefore, it never stops being important. While playing with my puppets, the viewer is encouraged to leaf through the provided research library, and learn about local opportunities to interact with Maine's diverse wildlife. Petting Zoo of the Unexplained states the solution without the problem, allowing the audience to take action through joy, not fear. Through play we will heal ourselves and our earth.

Bio

Abby Kelley is a sculptor based in Maine. She works in textiles, found objects, and paper to create narrative driven works about the importance of play. She informs the audience about mental health, environmental concerns, and how vital it is to rest, while also providing a safe and comfortable environment in which to learn. Her installations are often interactive and express a childlike sense of play. Abby views the world as her classroom. When not in the studio, Abby can be found exploring the coast of Maine, or cooking up a storm. Her toolkit includes whimsy, folklore, and native wildlife.