Sustain(ability) & the Art Studio
This course prepares artists and art educators to develop ways of thinking about sustainability in their practice, both conceptually and physically. We discuss the implications of a place-based practice and question the function of art to inform what a meaningful practice can entail today. Concepts, practical strategies and resources relating to sustainability and art are addressed throughout the course. Various natural art processes are covered including charcoal, natural paints, inks & dyes, handmade paper and recycled materials. The last two classes are spaced out for participants to pursue their own creative projects informed by course content.
This course has had a substantial impact on my art practice! Anna’s warm informed teaching style modeled and invited deep reflection about sustainability in our work as artists, particularly our choice of materials and how we interact with the world. Anna created a tender encouraging space for individual exploration and group sharing. I researched the history of carbon-based pigments in art, expanded on wildcrafting my own ink and paint using local wildfire charcoal and acorns, contemplated how I balance solitude with community engagement, and investigated how I collaborate with other life forms through the concept of interbeing. Our course reawakened some of my earliest inspirations and has brought that awareness into my present project with more clarity. I continue to find inspiration and motivation from all that was shared by Anna and the other participants! - Andie Thrams, 2025, andiethrams.com
About the Course
This course is taught through the Center for Art Education and Sustainability (CAES). The course was originally created by Ivan Asin, the founder of CAES and has been expanded upon by myself, to incorporate post-colonial theory, environmental justice and critical making reflection in light of holistic approaches to art and art education.
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Below are some teaching exemplars of the material covered: