Our library hosts an annual, family-friendly fandom convention. To get teens excited about this event, we hosted a Clay Cosplay program. Teens were each provided with a fashion doll, modeling clay, and array of art supplies. They were then challenged to create a character, either from pop culture or from an original concept. It was a fun way to let teens explore cosplay without purchasing expensive materials or lugging in a sewing machine. I would recommend this program for ages 12-18, though it can be adapted for younger or older audiences.
Type: Self-directed Age: Middle school Optimal size: 11-20 Estimated cost: $51 - $100 Planning time: <1 hour Frequency: One-time
Participants were able to create freely using the tools provided. Supplies were shared, so communication was crucial. The activity did not have a preset outcome, so participants had to think creatively and figure out their method independently. If one tool didn't work, they tried something else. At the end of the program, we went around the room so they could show their peers their final product and explain their process.
This is the doll, fresh from the box.
Supplies:
Each participant selected a doll to work with. We bought ours, but donations would work just as well and could potentially provide more diversity. I started with a demonstration to show them how to apply the clay to the body of the doll, went over the tools available to them, and then set them free. I pulled some graphic novels and magazines from the collection for participants to use as inspiration.
Here is the same doll, transformed into Wonder Woman using modeling clay, felt, and permanent markers.
I was incredibly impressed by what the teens were able to produce. One group created their characters from Dungeons and Dragons. Younger siblings who fell into the tween age range were able to participate. For our program, we were only able to find anatomically female dolls within our budget, but participants were able to use the clay to change body shape and features. Overall, I think it was a successful opportunity for teens to explore their creativity, work with new tools, and engage with other teens interested in a variety of fandoms. The learning outcomes were met, and participants learned by trial and error which methods worked best to achieve the look they wanted.
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