The power of the almighty googly eye does not cease to amaze me. My plans to make a kind and wise looking tree were thwarted by those eyes, turning said tree into a purveyor of nightmares. It began innocently enough, with the new season of Game of Thrones inspiring me to think of a project about enchanted forests and trees, and the role they’ve played in so many wonderful books and movies. Think of the Ents in Lord of The Rings, the grumpy apple trees in The Wizard of Oz, Grandmother Willow in Pocahontas, and the troll trees in Bridge To Terabithia…which brings us to talking trees. Just remember, when making your own, the use of googly eyes is optional.
Have a look at these videos to see some walking, talking trees:
The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers – Treebeard Rage Scene
Pocahontas – Grandmother Willow
Materials
- air drying clay
- sculpting tools eg. skewers, toothpicks, etc.
- base eg. piece of wood or ceramic tiles
- twigs and moss
- googly eyes (optional)
Instructions
1. The best inspiration for making your own clay tree is to have a look at a real tree, and think about the features you would give it, to make it come to life. You can also have a look at the links above, or read one of the books, for further inspiration.
2. Find a base to rest your clay on. Elongate the clay to form a tree-like shape with sturdy legs which can support it upright. To create facial features, you can add small amounts of clay for the brow and nose and/or pinch out shapes with your fingers. Once hollow spaces have been made for the eyes, gently press the googly eyes in place. Add other details such as arms, and embellish with twigs and moss. The moss can be poked into the clay using a fine tool like a skewer. Allow to dry.
ArtClubBlog 
Oh, what fun!! I love how it came out. Thank you for sharing at Sharing Saturday!
Thanks!