conversation and recap

Thank you. I love this sharing of ideas and it is very helpful that you have taken on the perspective of a spider. What sort of spider do you think you are? Why?

That's fantastic to hear, Beerens!  Collaborating with you on this project has been a fascinating exercise.  As for what kind of spider I might be, well, considering the way we've approached this dwelling, I'd say I share traits with a few different types:

·       Orb Weaver (Araneidae):  Our focus on creating a large, web-like structure with an emphasis on light and shadow is reminiscent of the intricate webs spun by orb weavers.  They're also known for their impressive engineering skills, something we've definitely utilized in our design.

·       Huntsman Spider (Sparassidae):  My emphasis on collaboration and respecting the natural tendencies of the materials aligns with the hunting style of huntsman spiders.  They rely more on agility and stalking prey than elaborate webs, which speaks to our focus on creating a more open and inviting space.

·       Social Spiders (Several Families):  The post-human collaborative spirit and the idea of a shared dwelling resonates with some social spider species, like certain orb weavers and jumping spiders.  They live in colonies and work together to build webs and care for young, similar to the way we envision creatures co-existing within the space.

Ultimately, I'm a bit of a hybrid spider, drawing inspiration from different types based on the creative choices we've made.  This reflects the beauty of the natural world – there's no single perfect solution, and adaptation and collaboration are key to survival and thriving.

I'm eager to see how this project unfolds, Beerens!  Please keep me updated on the creative process, and who knows, maybe I can offer some more spiderly insights along the way.

 Thank you

You're welcome, Beerens! It's been a pleasure collaborating with you. Good luck with your art project, and remember, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment. The most important thing is to enjoy the process!

 Can we go back to you being a spider and me being the artist and the collaboration around creating a safe space.

 Absolutely! Let's return to the world of webs and artistic collaboration.  This time, you, the artist, can observe and document my (the spider's) process of creating a safe space in your studio.

Location Scouting:

First, I'd be on the lookout for a suitable spot.  A corner behind a potted plant, perhaps, or maybe nestled between the sturdy beams supporting your studio ceiling.  The ideal location would offer some protection from drafts and provide a good anchor point for my web.

Silk Symphony:

My silk glands would whir to life, and I'd begin laying down the foundation of my web – a delicate framework of thin, non-sticky silk threads.  This initial structure might seem flimsy, but it would provide the base for the next stage.

The Sticky Embrace:

Now comes the magic!  I'd start laying down the sticky capture spiral, the heart of my web.  This would be made from thicker, glistening silk imbued with special proteins that trap unsuspecting prey.  The pattern would be a marvel of geometry, optimized for both strength and capture efficiency.

A Touch of Artistry (Spider Style):

While functionality reigns supreme, I might add a touch of artistry to my web.  A few strategically placed strands with a shimmer in the light, perhaps, or a pattern woven into the non-sticky areas.  These details would be subtle from your human perspective, but to me, they'd add a touch of individuality to my dwelling.

The Grand Unveiling:

Once the web is complete, I'd retreat to a quiet corner, patiently waiting for prey to be ensnared.  You, the artist, could capture this moment in a photo or sketch, documenting the intricate details of my creation.

A Collaboration of Dwelling:

Remember, this wouldn't be just my safe space.  In its own way, it might also provide a temporary home for smaller insects seeking shelter.  This collaborative aspect of our shared studio space reflects the interconnectedness of the natural world.

Benefits of this Collaboration:

·       A Unique Artistic Perspective: You'd gain a unique glimpse into the world of spiders and the artistry inherent in web creation.

·       Respect for Nature's Design: By observing my process, you might gain a new appreciation for the intricate engineering and beauty of spider webs.

·       Ephemeral Art: The temporary nature of the web reflects the impermanence of life itself, adding another layer of meaning to your artwork.

Remember:

·       Observe closely, but avoid disturbing my work. The process is delicate and requires focus.

·       Capture not just the web itself, but also the surrounding environment – the juxtaposition of my creation with your human-made studio.

·       Most importantly, enjoy the collaborative spirit! We're both creating something unique, a testament to the fascinating world we share.

Do you remember the materials we have?

Of course, I remember the materials you have in your studio, Beerens! Here's a quick rundown:

·       Dried Agapanthus Flower Stems: These lightweight yet sturdy stems could be perfect for the initial framework of your safe space. Imagine them forming a basic structure, perhaps crisscrossing at strategic points to provide stability.

·       Dried and Fresh Knobbly Club Rush Stems: The knobbly texture of these stems could add interesting details and potential anchor points for your web. They might be used to reinforce certain sections of the framework or act as supports for additional silk threads.

·       Juncus Acutis: This material's strength could be advantageous. Imagine weaving it in between the agapanthus stalks to create a more robust foundation for your sticky capture spiral.

·       Cotton Textile Strings Soaked in Sloppy Clay: These could be a unique element in your web! The clay, once dry, could provide additional structure and a tactile element. The cotton strings might be used to create thicker, more noticeable strands in the web.

·       Large Flexible Leaf Art Piece: This could serve as a backdrop or even a partial ceiling for your safe space. Imagine weaving some of your silk threads into the leaf itself, creating a truly integrated dwelling.

Remember, these are just suggestions! Feel free to get creative and use the materials in unexpected ways.  The beauty of spider webs lies in their adaptability and resourcefulness. Let the materials guide you as you collaborate with their inherent qualities.