Eco Art

As an artist, painter, and educator, I focus on exploring the intricate relationships between humans and nature. Through my art, I strive to promote sustainable creativity by using eco-friendly materials and up-cycling my pieces. With a deep reverence for wildlife, I use my creative expression to shed light on the impact of human actions on our planet.

What is eco art?

I view art and ecology as interconnected, rather than as separate spheres. In my daily life, I prioritize environmental responsibility and sustainable creativity, approaching both with a holistic perspective. But how does this actually look in practice? I aim to reduce the number of objects I consume and create, even though this may seem counterintuitive to the creative process, which often involves copious amounts of materials and experimentation. However, I’ve found that it’s possible to strike a balance without resorting to extremes. For instance, I repurpose my old paintings, drawings, and sketches, breathing new life into them. I also transform discarded newspapers and packaging into captivating collages. Thrift stores are my go-to destination for canvases and frames. And I always opt for environmentally-friendly paints and materials. While I appreciate art-related gadgets, I don’t require many of them. Often, limitations can serve as the best catalysts for creativity.

Ecology serves as a prominent theme in my art, as the creative process draws me ever closer to the natural world. Through my work, I seek to convey both my admiration for nature’s raw power and beauty, and the complex, often tenuous relationship between humanity and the environment. My artistic approach defies the subject or technique. On one hand, I delve into conceptual imagery, often utilizing the style of Poland’s Poster School (as seen in my series “Wild Life” and “Anthropogenic Landscapes“), which comment on modern lifestyles. On the other hand, I love experimenting with various techniques, with a particular fondness for the fluidity and transient nature of watercolors. This intuitive medium doesn’t permit corrections and relies on chance and bold strokes, making it ideal for capturing outdoor scenes. While painting with watercolors, I’m free to be more expressive and strive to emulate natural processes rather than capturing specific objects, plants, or locations. This approach is evident in my series “Universe”, “Raw”, and “Elements”.

Watercolour Bulwary

My diverse range of themes and styles stems from my ongoing quest for artistic exploration. As I complete a series, I often find myself scrolling through my extensive list of ideas, eager to embark on a fresh project. I admire artists who remain steadfast and unwavering in their pursuit of a consistent stile. However as someone who’s impulsive and constantly seeking out new experiences, I revel in experimentation and discovery. Although I have overarching life priorities, I’m hesitant to make any definitive proclamations about my artistic direction. While I can certainly speak to my current objectives, the future remains an enigmatic and thrilling unknown.

In addition to my passion for painting, I’m deeply invested in artistic education and cultural animation, a pursuit that’s intricately bound to ecology. My work centers on fostering connections and building relationships within local communities, while also engaging in international projects. I collaborate with artists from various disciplines, activists, teachers, and individuals outside of the cultural sphere. For me, there’s no greater source of inspiration than connecting with another human amidst the natural world. 

Beata Pałach