FROM TRASH TO TREASURE
HOW ENVIRONMENTAL ART IS SAVING THE PLANET ONE SCULPTURE AT A TIME

by Saidat Animasaun

“Climate Change”, “Reuse, Reduce, Recycle”, “Sustainability”. These are all terms we’re familiar with. The bandwidth of the climate has decreased and we civilians get the blame and pressure to reduce our minimal carbon footprint and save the environment. At the same time, the bigger corporations generate over ten times more pollution and waste compared to what we produce as a whole. Recently, COP 28 was held in the UAE, where officials gathered once again to discuss the deteriorating climate and the same recurring salvation plans that may never be fully implemented. This statement provokes a feeling of despair and raises the important question“What can be done to truly make a difference in the fight against climate change and safeguard our planet” While I may not have the answer to this question, I can certainly demonstrate how innovative artists are taking action to merge their creativity with environmentally conscious initiatives to make a tangible impact.

This concept of art is termed environmental and land art and was established in the late 20th century as part of the wider conceptual art movement alongside the rise of global concerns. Artists use or upcycle discarded ready-made objects or objects from their natural surroundings to address wider environmental and political issues. Often, these objects are transformed into 3-dimensional installations, which strongly adds to their visual impact. It’s fascinating to observe how these once mundane objects can be manipulated and transformed into visually appealing art pieces. Additionally, and as a bonus, these artworks no longer pose a threat to the environment or surroundings and can be appreciated by a wider audience. 

Environmental or Sustainable art isn’t widely talked about and that is something we would like to change here at Floppi, so, in light of this, I would like to bring to attention some of these commendable art pieces that have not only contributed to our environment but also created very vibrant and intricately detailed pieces.

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{Click on each artist to read more about them and their work}

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