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We only have one planet, and we have a responsibility to pass it on in its best condition for the next generations to come. I believe that through creative expression…. artists can create a better world.
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I am committed to sustainable best practices wherever possible in my art practice, supporting local and national businesses, and strive every day to enhance the possibilities of marrying creativity with eco-consciousness. All of the products I use are made in the USA.
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The world is changing, our societal values and understandings are changing, and it is my hope that I can help influence or motivate people in some small way with my art and my #creativelife programs to change their thinking to live with a smaller footprint.
A Commitment to Sustainable Art.
My art uses sustainable materials, and uses sustainable reproduction and shipping practices wherever possible. I produce at least one ‘Sustainable Planet’ art piece each month, with the purpose of creating awareness to the current environmental challenges many of Earth's species and places are experiencing, and I strive to influence others to live more sustainably in their own lives.
The Origin Story
My journey into sustainable artistry began with two simple yet profound questions to myself: (1) How can art be created without leaving a heavy footprint on the environment? ….and (2) How can art and creativity create more fulfilling lives for people, and influence them to live better with less? These questions ignited my quest for innovation and a deep dive into sustainable art practices that have come to define my artistic process and methodologies…. And my core worldview.
Live a smaller footprint.
I believe we should all try to live with a smaller footprint, that consumerism should be moderated, we should not strive for bigger – but for moderation, and that we should try to live with low carbon-high sustainability values wherever we can.
Sustainable Sourcing
Central to my commitment to sustainability is my approach to sourcing materials that will not harm the earth. Art can last a hundred years or more, so we must think longer term than the next few years. The materials in my work include pigment paint, stretched canvases, brushes and related tools, and then art reproduction and shipping. I have researched deeply how art supplies are made, and have chosen USA-based providers and manufacturers that have embraced sustainable business practices at their core. Instead of opting for conventional art supplies that often involve environmentally harmful processes, I have selected materials that are ethically produced within the United States, and are environmentally friendly. Whether it's reclaimed wood, recycled paper, or non-toxic paints, every element of my artwork is chosen with sustainability in mind.
Live a smaller footprint.
I advocate for embracing a lifestyle that minimizes our environmental footprint, encouraging moderation in consumerism, resisting the urge for excessive consumption, and prioritizing low carbon-high sustainability lifestyles and values whenever possible.
Art to Inspire Change.
As societal values evolve alongside global changes, I aspire to use my art and programs to inspire individuals to rethink their choices and adopt practices that lead to a smaller ecological footprint.
I firmly believe that such a lifestyle not only benefits the planet but also contributes to individual happiness. I believe art has the power to heal not only the soul - but also the planet.
Carbon-Reduced and Environmentally Friendly Print Reproduction: In creating paper and canvas print reproductions of my artwork (including my Giclée museum quality prints), I have prudently chosen Inkjet printing as my method of reproduction. Inkjet printing is more environmentally friendly, as Inkjet printers require far less energy than other digital technologies, and use earth-friendly, water-based pigment inks, without any chemicals used in the printing process. Inkjet printing has a much lower carbon footprint due to lower energy consumption, reduced waste generation, and fewer emissions than most other forms of art reproduction. Additionally, with so many connected printing facilities globally through my contracted provider (Gooten print-on-demand), the art can be printed through a smart supply chain, dynamically routing and producing orders closest to you the consumer, reducing shipping costs and delivery/transportation carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
Additionally, Inkjet printing is more environmentally responsible choice for your home environment (no chemicals), for businesses like mine (reducing carbon footprint, energy and chemicals), ….and for the planet as a whole.
Local Craftsmanship
Supporting local craftsmanship is another cornerstone of my sustainable ethos. By working closely with artisans and suppliers within my region and community, I am not only able to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also foster a sense of community and collaboration. From supporting incomes within my local community by purchasing materials at local stores and businesses, to printers who use eco-friendly inks and are able to print and dropship from the closest geographic location to the end recipient, thereby minimizing carbon emissions from transportation - every contributor plays a part in a sustainable ecosystem.
Waste Reduction
I try to minimize any waste created in my studio. I have an active recycling program for any materials eligible for our local city recycling program. I try to see waste as an opportunity for innovation rather than a byproduct to be discarded, and try to reuse any element I can. I take my Amazon delivery cardboard boxes and cut them up to use as my paint palettes. Art I do not consider high enough quality, I paint over as canvas material for future projects. I use an industrial tube-wringer to ensure I get every ounce of paint form each tube, and even the smallest remnants are carefully collected and repurposed, minimizing waste and maximizing creativity.
Energy Efficiency
A commitment to energy efficiency is important in my home and studio. From energy-saving lighting to the use of renewable energy sources, every effort is made to minimize the environmental impact of the artistic process. I drive an electric automobile, and have all electric devices programmed for off-peak energy usage. Solar is next. By embracing sustainable energy solutions, I try to not only reduce my carbon footprint but to encourage others in the artistic community. Through my unwavering commitment to sustainability, I believe we should all do our part in living and working sustainably, and that creativity and eco-consciousness are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they can coexist harmoniously, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
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HERE ARE MY COMMITMENTS TO SUSTAINABILITY IN MY ART PRACTICE & PROGRAMS.
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Net zero carbon by 2028
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A commitment to use sustainable and earth-friendly materials in my art wherever possible through sustainable art practices.
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Using recycled materials when possible
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A deep affinity and respect for nature and the environment through my work, to nurture understanding and sustainable life choices with my audiences
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Sustainable business and shipping practices wherever possible towards net-zero carbon
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Working with my non-profit (www.humanitywe.org) to help the world's poorest people move out of poverty
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Support & alignment with the United Nations Race to Zero Campaign
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Helping to create entrepreneurs, jobs, and sustainable income for people, families and whole communities through my art and charity
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A commitment to help rebuild sustainability within our fragile oceans
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Through Creative Life programs, a commitment to teach sustainability practices and help build more effective leadership to contribute to a better world for today, and for future generations
Creative Expression
Artists have a unique ability to influence and shape society through their creative expressions. Artists can help create a better world by inspiring people, creating a better understanding of complex social subjects through art, fostering cultural understanding, promoting social change, driving innovation, and bringing beauty and joy into people's lives. By harnessing the power of art, we can work towards building a more empathetic, inclusive, and harmonious society for future generations.
Social Commentary
Artists are able to use their work as a platform to comment on social, political, and environmental issues. Through their art, they can raise awareness about important issues, challenge the status quo, and provoke critical thinking and dialogue. By shining a light on pressing problems, artists can inspire positive change and encourage people to take action to address these issues.
Inspiration and Emotion
Art has the power to evoke strong emotions and inspire people. Whether it's through music, literature, visual arts, or other forms, we artists can stir feelings of empathy, compassion, and understanding in our audiences. This emotional connection can inspire people to think differently, and can foster a sense of unity and solidarity, leading to a more empathetic, compassionate and enlightened society.
I believe that all lives have equal value.
That all men and women are created equal. That everyone belongs. That everyone has rights, and everyone has the right to flourish. I believe that when people who are bound by the rules have no role in shaping the rules, moral blind spots become law, and the powerless bear the burden. … I believe that entrenched social norms that shift society’s benefits to the powerful and its burdens to the powerless not only hurt the people pushed out but also always hurt the whole.”
― Melinda Gates, Co-founder The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
​I AGREE & COMMIT TO THIS PHILOSOPHY.