Art is an amazing thing. If we open our minds to it, it can move us greatly. And if we let it move us, it can further expand our minds. So it goes for environmental art, or ecoArt, or land art. Some who create and study it, and who know much more about it than I, define such boundaries. But by whatever name you call it, take a little time to get to know it.
With this post, I'm opening a new door for exploring the interconnected world of sustainability. I invite you to see for yourself. And if art in some way fuels your eConsciousness, do share your thoughts with us. A while back, I was awestruck by some photographic images I saw on a web site recommended by a friend. What I saw has to this day inspired me. It's called Forests Forever, and if you visit, make sure to linger amongst the Baobab trees--it's well worth it.
The Green Museum is a fantastic place to start an exploration of art and the environment, all on line. Links to exhibitions and featured artists provide a broad palette of styles, media...and interpretations about our relationship with the natural world. The site is a great resource for books and writings as well, and tools for educators and others who see the place for environmental art in your schools and communities.
As Tricia Watts, art curator and founder of a non-profit organization called ecoartspace observes in the online journal LANDviews, "Who is better equiped than artists--thinking outside the box, employing their creativity and resourcefulness, and a love of beauty--to envision a more sustainable world?" Ecoartspace is the vehicle for bringing us the contributions of these artists, through exhibitions at established museums, and by undertaking various artist/community programs.
Again quoting Tricia Watts, "Ecoartists can be thought of as midwives for the earth, facilitators of environmental education, consultants for environmental restoration and visionaries for transforming ecological communities." Both the LANDviews and ecoartspace sites will connect you with a wealth of fascinating and thought provoking examples.
When I finally had to call it a day and stop following links to artists' sites and showcases, I was overwhelmed by the power of art to grab and engage on such a vital topic as sustainability. I felt as though I better understood something very basic, and that art, rooted in the expressions of our early cave dwelling ancestors, is an essential part of our creating a healthy relationship with our planet.
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