Natural States: CSUMB Senior Capstone 2021

Despite huge advances in science over the past century, our understanding of nature is still far from complete. Natural States explores the limits of our understanding of nature and promotes the inherent worth of all ecosystems in their raw, untouched by human form. Depictions of species using bright colors and intricate patterns represent the complexities of earth’s ecosystems and the harmonious relationships present in them. I created this project because we all have unique relationships with our environments and not enough opportunities to reflect on them. Throughout the last year of lockdowns, without shopping malls or cinemas, nature has become a respite for many including myself. Drawing inspiration from folk and pop art, my project aims to build collective empathy for the natural world as a means for conservation. I also explore the environmental impacts of the artmaking process, seeking the most sustainable methods for creating my works.

The project consists of 3 brightly painted, toy-like cardboard sculptures and 2 accompanying paintings along with a lesson plan for children. Cardboard is a highly earth-friendly material for creating artworks as it is made of up to 90% recycled fibers, readily available, and malleable in creating complex sculptures. The sculptures are created from 3D models which allows me to execute them on any scale for future public art projects. Through children’s lesson plans, adult art workshops, murals, and public sculptures, future phases of my project offer opportunities to connect with communities and encourage bonds with nature through use of recycled art materials.