Artist spotlight: TANIA CROSSINGHAM (website).  Featuring Eco-dyead artwork.

The Hidden Cost of Traditional Art Materials

The environmental impact of conventional art supplies is significant:

✖ Energy Consumption

Production relies heavily on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to carbon emissions.

✖ Water Usage

Creating paper, dyes, and pigments often requires intensive water use, a concern even in water-rich Finland.

✖ Waste Generation

From paint tubes to packaging, these materials contribute to landfill pollution.

✖ Chemical Impact

Many traditional supplies contain chemicals harmful to both human health and the environment.

✖ Plastic Proliferation

Acrylics, synthetic fibers, and resins all contribute to the global plastic problem.

✖ Overconsumption

Low prices often lead to buying more than needed, depleting resources and increasing pollution.

✖ Animal cruelty

An unethical practices of sourcing, production and testing the art materials harm land and marine life.

Artist spotlight: Varpu Eronen (website). Featuring eco-dyed art on canvas.

“I use vintage textiles, mainly bedsheets that are no longer in use and are gifted to me by friends and family. I make dyes and inks from kitchen scraps and plants I forage or grow myself.“

Defining Eco-Friendly Art Materials

Eco-friendly art materials have a lower impact on our planet's finite resources. They're sourced ethically, avoiding exploitation of people, animals, and ecosystems. They're safe for our health, the environment, and wildlife.

To help navigate the world of sustainable art supplies, consider this "Eco+ Checklist" when sourcing materials:

★ Biodegradable:

Naturally decomposing over time

★ Plastic-free

Avoiding hidden plastics in unexpected places

★ Non-toxic

Water-based materials free from solvents and heavy metals

★ Zero VOC

No volatile organic compounds off-gassing from finished artwork

★ Recycled

Made partially from post-consumer waste

★ Recyclable

Can be recycled at the end of its life cycle

★ Plant-based

Made from renewable plant sources, with a lower carbon footprint

★ Cruelty-free

Ensuring no animals were harmed in production

While finding materials that tick all these boxes might seem challenging, especially in Helsinki, prioritizing based on what matters most to you is a great start.

Creative Sourcing Strategies for Helsinki Artists

Eco-friendly art supplies can sometimes be pricier, but Helsinki offers unique opportunities for sustainable sourcing:

1. Explore Second-hand Stores: Helsinki's numerous flea markets and thrift stores are treasure troves of potential art materials.

2. Artist Swaps: Our association organizes material exchanges within our association, fostering community while trying new supplies. We announce the art swap days in our social media channels and newsletter.

3. Repurpose Everyday Items: Transform Helsinki's waste into art. That discarded cardboard or those fallen leaves could become your next masterpiece.

4. Nature's Bounty: Responsibly forage for natural materials in Helsinki's abundant green spaces, connecting your art directly to the local environment.

5. Local Partnerships: Collaborate with Helsinki businesses to repurpose their waste materials into art supplies. Like local kombucha makers, who donated mycelium leftovers from their production facility for an art masterclass. 

   These options are often free or low-cost, reducing demand for new production.

Artist spotlight: TANIA CROSSINGHAM (website).  Featuring Eco-dyead artworks on marbled paper.

As members of Helsinki's international art community, we have a unique platform to drive change. By adopting sustainable practices now, we're positioning ourselves at the forefront of a crucial movement in the global art world. We are crafting a legacy of positive impact that reflects Helsinki's commitment to sustainability and driving market demand for innovative, eco-friendly art supplies.

Artist spotlight: Varpu Eronen. 

“I think sustainability is such an integral part of my art that it must affect the audience when they decide to buy a piece.”

🌿Follow Veronika on social media and be part of the discussion on responsible art choices.

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