Within this Unit of Learning, students created a structure with the intent to provide a safe place for birds to build their nests and protect them from predators. This project allowed students to observe and gather a variety of materials found with the grounds of the schools woods. By examining the materials shape, texture, pattern etc, students then explored how these components can be layered and stylized within their design for a bird house. It is therefore necessary that students are very selective about the objects they chose. This skills orientated project, asked students to form their chosen objects in clay and compile them in relief or by embossing them into their structure. Students had the opportunity to explore and form a structure that is unique to them. Throughout this project, we examine how artists involve their surroundings within their work.