Earth based art values

During this hibernation and reflection time I find myself asking, what are my art values? Can my artwork and process become more sustainable?

Since 2020 when I started making and using plant pigments and then making botanical prints, I wanted to move towards a more sustainable art practice. Inspired by artist Beth Grossman and her WEAD (Women’s Eco Art Dialogues) presentation about creating an artist manifesto, I started by identifying a set of values. They would be a way of redirecting my practice to both choose sustainability and name what matters most to me. Here's what I came up with. I made sure that I added values that feed me and keep me going. After all, I am part of nature, too.

1. Follow the plants. That means listening to and respecting the plants I collaborate with.

2. Reuse and source materials locally. This asks me to think deeply about materials and if possible, choose those that support rather than harm life on the planet.

3. Make spiritual connections. This keeps my work alive and inspiring to me.

4. Find beauty and magic. If I can't do this, there's no point in doing the artwork at all.

5. Be biodegradable. Avoid materials that do not break down, like plastic. It’s okay to create art that will disappear before it ends up in a landfill.

6. Be surprised. By the content, by the images, by the meaning of the work, by the process, and connections that happen. This keeps it exciting for me.

7. Share the work in a variety of ways and places. The hope is to reach many people and make connections. I don't just do it for myself, I do it for the world. 

What are the values that guide you? Maybe you aren't aware of them but they are there. I wish you a restorative and healthy winter.