Notice
Green Art Making
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- Category: Art How-To's
- Published on Thursday, 01 March 2012 14:50
- Written by WAN Team
- Hits: 237
At the World Artist Network, we are gearing up for our first public event celebrating Earth Day. We are partnering with artists worldwide, local organizations and schools, to create awareness and promote “green” living. Celebrate Earth Day with us by joining our Call for Art.
But what does “green” living amount to when comes to art?
Just as for most consumer products, there are alternative recycled, repurposed or otherwise sustainable art materials to use. Most major art supply brands have at least a few choices in eco-friendly supplies. When you purchase eco-friendly supplies you send a direct message, as a consumer, to retailers and manufacturers about the kind of product you want in your studio.
Solvents are a necessary part of the art process for many artists, but most solvents are volatile and toxic (think turpentine.) Try using citrus-based solvents instead, which are made from the natural oils found in citrus peels. They are a safe choice for your health and the environment.
Other easy tips:
- Host swap parties with fellow artist friends, and trade supplies that you never use for others you need.
- Use old credit cards, or those pesky promotional ones that come on the mail, to spread thick paint.
- Use junk-mail paper for collages, make your own paper or use recycled paper for your sketches.
- Make your own paint with natural pigments, (check to make sure they are not toxic, some natural pigments contain manganese, lead and others that can be dangerous when inhaled or ingested) plant, and vegetable dyes.
- Reuse your egg cartons as palettes.
- Repurpose unused objects and turn them into artworks.
- Make papier-mâché casts for your sculptures.
- Use a layer of gesso to repurpose an old canvas or paper.
Making conscious choices in the way you buy, use and reuse materials can make a big difference. The art community has always been a driving force behind social change, and there’s no reason not to apply it to preserving our environment as well.
Happy art-making!