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Can You Create Environmental Art with Acrylic and Oil Paint? A Realistic Artist’s Perspective

The Paradox of Environmental Art

Bullfinch sitting on a branch environmental artAs I understand it environmental art is art inspired by, celebrating, or advocating for nature and the environment. But many artists that advocate for the environment use traditional materials like oil and newer ones like acrylic that aren’t particularly good for the environment. There are alternatives that are less difficult such as water mixable oils and newer brands of acrylic that are made with non-petrol base materials. These tend to be quite expensive.

My work is largely inspired by nature and I am keen to protect the environment but I love painting in acrylic and oil.    In this post I want to look at some of the issues and make my own suggestions.

What Is Environmental Art?

According to Wikipedia environmental art is a:

range of artistic practices and works “that explore and respond to issues related to the environment, climate change, and ecological sustainability” 

According to the Tate, however, it is:

art that addresses social and political issues relating to the natural and urban environment.

So environmental art could be seen as a bit of a movement in art but also as a theme in any artwork.  From these quotes I would conclude that eco art can be produced in any medium and still be a valuable contribution to the conversation.

My Mediums: Acrylic and Oil Paint

I use mixed media in my art and particularly acrylic and oil (see my post on this combo here).  In summary, I love the quick drying nature of acrylics as they allow me to create textured backgrounds quickly. Then by working in oil on top of the acrylic, I get the richness of the oil and the easy blending ability.  However, I am aware of the problems with solvents for oil painting and plastics in acrylic paint that aren’t good for the environment.

How I Reduce My Impact as an Acrylic and Oil Painter

I think the most significant thing I can do is switch materials. To this end I have started using water mixable oils and I have to say they are a joy to work with. The other change would be to use some of the newer acrylic paints that are better for the environment but these are very expensive so I will have to wait till the price levels out a bit.  In the meantime, I am conscientious about not washing acrylic paint down the sink and disposing of solvents carefully.  A great way with acrylic paint is to keep an art journal and after your painting session, use the leftover paint as a background on one of the pages.

Art as Advocacy: Painting Nature to Inspire Change

I love to paint natural subjects in bright and vivid colours. My art acknowledges the vulnerability of the subjects of my paintings by leaving areas of them unpainted. My hope is that viewers will be encouraged to take notice of the beautiful plants and animals I am inspired by.  One customer at an art fair made a bee line for my stall from the other side of the room and said to Me that my artwork was so striking she had to come take a look.  She left with a new cushion!

Can Acrylic and Oil Painters Be Environmental Artists?

I would argue that you don’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact and I think all art that depicts environmental concerns in a helpful way is valid.

Maybe it is worth considering whether artists are making progress towards more environmental practices. I would love to hear about how some of you are implementing changes or what things you do to offset any damage. I feel like the intention behind the work is the main factor.

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    Tips for Other Painters Wanting to Be More Sustainable

    Here are some suggested resources for use in eco-friendly art.  I would love to know your thoughts on these as I have only used a few.  The masters brush cleaner, for one, is excellent.

    CategoryResource/BrandDescription/Use
    Eco Acrylic PaintLascaux Sirius AcrylicsLow-toxicity, water-based, manufactured with environmental standards in Switzerland.
    Natural Earth PaintEco-acrylic line and natural pigment kits, plant-based and non-toxic.
    Eco Oil PaintGamblin Solvent-Free Oil ColorsOil paints designed for use without toxic solvents.
    Natural Earth Paint OilsNatural, non-toxic oil paint kits for greener painting.
    Chelsea Classical StudioLavender-based, non-toxic oil mediums and brush cleaners.
    SurfacesArteza Recycled CanvasPre-stretched canvases made from recycled materials.
    Global Art PanelsWood painting panels from FSC-certified sustainable forests.
    Hahnemühle Bamboo PaperDrawing/painting paper made from renewable bamboo pulp.
    Cleanup & WasteThe Masters Brush CleanerBiodegradable, non-toxic brush soap for acrylic and oil.
    Gamblin GamsolOdorless mineral spirit, less toxic alternative for oil cleanup (dispose responsibly).
    Earth911 Paint DisposalFind your local hazardous waste paint disposal/recycling facility.
    PackagingEcoEncloseRecycled and recyclable shipping materials, including padded mailers and boxes.
    MooPakCompostable and recycled packaging for shipping art safely.
    Learning/CommunityGreenArtLabAllianceInternational network sharing sustainability info in the arts.
    Artists Network: Eco-Friendly ArtGuides and articles for artists making greener choices.
    Creative Carbon ScotlandResources for sustainable creative practices (global, not just Scotland).

    Wrapping Up

    I know that when it comes to the environment every small action matters. But there are limitations that we cannot easily overcome sometimes. I would really love to hear your thoughts on this matter in the comments.

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