Sustain(ability) & the Art Studio

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This course prepares artists and art educators to develop ways of thinking about sustainability in their practice, both conceptually and physically. Participants will learn how to wildcraft art materials, a practice that requires one to deepen their relationship with land, creativity, and self. We will also think critically about how one's community and ecosystem are vital allies in a time of socio-ecological destabilization. The first half of the course includes lectures, guest artist talks, resource offerings, and group discussions, as we explore the implications of a bioregional perspective and investigate the function of art today. In the second half of the course, each student will work on their own project, informed by course content. They will receive feedback from Anna and the class before a final class presentation, open to the public.

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.

Below are some teaching exemplars of the material covered:

Historical Context

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Related Concepts

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Processes

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Resources

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Reflection

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