Art has the power to inspire, provoke, and captivate, but it also has an environmental footprint that is often overlooked. From the materials used to exhibitions and installations that showcase them, the arts industry contributes to various environmental challenges. How can we as artists ensure we are reducing our environmental footprint?
One of the appeals of collage art for myself was the reuse of materials. I use vintage magazines, postcards, and books, and more to make my artworks. As I start to expand my practice, I acknowledge that my use of digital collage can impact my ecological footprint. Your environmental footprint as an artist matters!
If you’d like to read more about becoming an environmentally conscious artist, read here:
What Impact Does Art Have on the Environment?
As a society, our use of landfill is contributing horribly to our footprint. Some rubbish sent to landfill is burnt to be broken down further which leads to further damage. Estimating the exact amount of art materials that go to landfills worldwide each year is challenging. There isn’t comprehensive data specifically focused on this aspect of waste. The disposal of art materials would fall under the broader category of general waste or solid waste. Making it really difficult to isolate.
Some Landfill Materials
This is where your environmental footprint as an artist matters. However, it’s safe to assume that a significant amount of art materials end up in landfills annually. This can be due to the disposable nature of some art supplies. Here are a few factors contributing to the disposal of art materials:
Single-Use Materials
Art supplies such as markers, pens, brushes, and certain types of paper are single-use. They might have a limited lifespan, leading to regular disposal.
Excess and Leftovers
We can often purchase more materials than we need for a particular project. This can lead to leftover paints, canvases, and other supplies that may eventually be discarded to landfill.
Drying and Expired Materials
Paints, adhesives and other materials can dry out over time. Meaning we dispose of them as general rubbish.
Clean-Up Materials
Artists use solvents, rags, and other materials for cleaning brushes and surfaces, some of which may contain hazardous substances that require proper disposal.
To reduce our environmental impact of art materials, artists can adopt sustainable practices. This could look like implementing a policy towards using only eco-friendly supplies, using proper recycling methods, and repurposing materials. This way we are being mindful of waste generation.
Art Manufacturers
Additionally art supply manufacturers have started offering more environmentally friendly options. Manufacturers should try to reduce the amount of plastic used in products. This is to help artists reduce their plastic usage – something I am very aware of now. The use of water-based paints, recycled paper, and sustainable brushes can help mitigate the environmental impact of art materials.
Again, while we don’t have specific numbers for the annual disposal of art materials. The measures listed above can contribute to reducing waste. As artists we should be promoting eco-consciousness in the art community and encouraging others to be eco-conscious.
Please look at these eco-friendly stores if you are going to be restocking supplies. Please reach out them if you have any questions regarding archival quality or their own commitments.
Eco Art & Craft
Started by an Australian mother and teacher who saw a need for eco-friendly supplies for children.
Deans Art Supplies
Check out their eco-friendly supplies section. There is a large section of non-toxic paints!
Global Colours (Fine Arts)
If you are looking for more fine art student friendly paints, please have a look at this selection!
Proper Recycling for Artists
All artists should be recycling their materials in the correct manner. It doesn’t matter if your studio is at your home or through a rented space. You have an obligation to others to ensure you are recycling correctly. Here are some steps you can take to make your studio practice more environmentally conscious.
What Can Be Recycled?
Paper and Cardboard
Most art papers, sketchbooks, and cardboard can be recycled. Ensure they are free from non-paper contaminants.
Plastics
Identify the recycling symbols on plastic containers, brushes, and other materials to ensure they are accepted by local recycling programs.
Metals
Aluminum and other metals from frames or tools can often be recycled.
Glass
Clean glass jars and containers can usually be recycled.
Electronic Waste
Old electronics like tablets or styluses should be taken to e-waste recycling centres.
Reuse and Up-cycle
Before recycling, consider if any materials can be reused or up-cycled. Here are some ideas:
- Old canvases can be painted over.
- Scraps of paper can be used for collages.
- Broken tools might have parts that can be salvaged.
Special Recycling Programs
Look for specialised recycling programs for specific materials, such as TerraCycle for hard-to-recycle items. Some art supply stores offer take-back programs for certain materials.
Safe Disposal of Hazardous Materials
Properly dispose of hazardous materials such as paints, solvents, and chemicals by following local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Many communities have designated drop-off points or special collection events for hazardous waste.
To learn more about safe recycling of hazardous materials, please go to your local council website.
