Blog Post #11
Welcome back, friend!
Have you ever wondered why so many artists like to go outside to draw, paint, or create?
Today’s topic or discussion is Art and the Natural World: discussing how artists are inspired by nature and how they use their work to raise awareness about environmental issues.
There are countless ways in which artists can be inspired by nature, and here are 15 examples:
1. Capturing the beauty of landscapes through painting, drawing, or photography
2. Using natural materials such as leaves, flowers, or wood to create sculptures or installations
3. Creating abstract works based on the colors, textures, and patterns found in nature
4. Exploring the relationships between humans and the natural world through mixed media works
5. Documenting the impact of climate change on ecosystems and wildlife through art
Creating art that raises awareness about endangered species and their habitats
7. Using art to promote sustainable living practices such as recycling and composting
8. Creating murals or public art installations that depict natural scenes or environmental issues
9. Using art to explore the connections between environmental degradation and social justice
10. Creating art that celebrates the diversity of life on earth and the need for conservation efforts
11. Designing sustainable architecture that incorporates natural elements such as green roofs and living walls
12. Creating art that incorporates recycled or repurposed materials
13. Using art to raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources such as water and air
14. Creating art that highlights the beauty and fragility of ecosystems that are threatened by human activities
15. Using art to promote environmental activism and the need for collective action to address environmental issues.
How do artists use this in their art?
Through their work, artists can raise awareness about environmental issues in a variety of ways.
For example, they can:
1. Create works that depict the effects of pollution and climate change on natural ecosystems
2. Use their art to promote conservation efforts and sustainable living practices
3. Partner with environmental organizations to raise awareness about specific issues and campaigns
4. Use their art to create a sense of urgency around environmental issues and inspire action
5. Incorporate messages about environmental responsibility into their work, such as using recycled materials or promoting renewable energy sources
6. Use their art to challenge societal attitudes towards the environment and encourage more responsible behavior
7. Create works that encourage viewers to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty and importance
8. Use their art to communicate complex scientific concepts and research in an accessible and engaging way
9. Use their art to highlight the
interconnectedness of environmental issues and social justice concerns
10. Partner with other artists and organizations to create collaborative works that promote environmental awareness and action.
Leading us to our art therapy exercise for the day: #TyistightArtTherapyThursdays
Because it’s January and it’s been pretty cold and snowy outside (at least where I’m at) we won’t be going outside necessarily instead we will be staying indoors but still using nature as our inspiration and will be creating a snowflake-themed Mandala.
MATERIALS NEEDED
Paint
Q-tip, baking brushes, something you can dot with
Construction paper
Optional: scissors and pencil
Keep in mind ***
Keep in mind the shape of a snowflake. Look at mandalas for inspiration if you need but for the most part, let your imagination roam free and have fun with the exercise. Remember that snowflakes are just like us, no two are exactly alike so yours doesn’t have to look like mine, feel free to go your own direction and get creative.
MY ARTWORK AND REFLECTION
TIME TO REFLECT
Once you have completed your artwork I challenge you to take a piece of paper, or maybe jot it down in the notes on your phone but take a moment to reflect on your art and ask yourself questions to gain a deeper understanding of your emotions and yourself.
Example reflection questions:
What parts of your artwork do you feel are most successful?
Did your artwork turn out how you intended? Or did it take a different direction?
What would you do differently if you were to create this artwork again?
What did you enjoy most about this process?
What did you learn from creating this artwork?
