As the world becomes increasingly eco-conscious, artists are searching for supplies that are not only high-quality but also eco-friendly. Sustainable or “green” art supplies have become a popular focus because of their environmentally friendly composition, manufacturing impact, and disposal process.
When we talk about art supplies, it can encompass a broad range of materials, from sketchbooks to paints, brushes, canvas, and beyond. In aiming for sustainability, we must consider the entire lifecycle of artistic material, from its raw ingredient sourcing to production, distribution, use, and disposal.
Eco-Friendly Papers and Sketchbooks
A primary raw material in art is paper. To make sustainable choices, artists can opt for recycled paper or paper made from alternative fibers. Some recycled papers use post-consumer waste blended with the pulp of sustainably managed forests, while others are crafted entirely from post-consumer content, reducing the demand on our forests.
Alternative fiber papers, on the other hand, are made from anything but trees. Bamboo, hemp, kenaf, flax, cotton, and even sugar cane waste known as bagasse can all be used to make paper. Often, these types of fibers are byproducts of other industries, adding an extra layer of sustainability in their repurposing.
Labels to look out for when purchasing eco-friendly papers or sketchbooks are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), Rainforest Alliance, and Green-e certified.
Plant-Based and Mineral Pigments
Conventional pigments are often derived from petrochemicals and can be harmful to the environment. Plant-based and mineral pigments eliminate this risk.
Derived from natural resources, plant-based pigments make use of a wide variety of leaves, stems, roots, and flowers. They deliver stunning colors and are completely biodegradable.
Mineral pigments, like earth pigments, are directly sourced from the earth’s crust. They are unique in color due to the varying mineral content across different geographic locations. Due to their natural sourcing, they are non-toxic and eco-friendly.
Non-Toxic Paints
Traditional paints often have a high VOC count, resulting in harm during manufacturing, usage, and disposal. Low or zero VOC paints are a healthier and more sustainable choice.
Soy-based inks are another sustainable alternative. Unlike traditional petroleum-based inks, soy inks are plant-based, biodegradable, and allow for easier paper recycling.
Water-based paints like watercolors and acrylics generally have a lower environmental burden due to the absence of harsh solvents. However, with the growth in popularity of the oil painting, manufacturers have developed water-soluble oil paints, which lack the harmful solvents found in traditional oil paints.
Sustainable brands to consider are Golden’s Open Acrylics, Maimeri, and Old Holland Classic Oils, all of whom offer non-toxic, high-performance options.
Brushes and Tools
Sustainability can also be found in the artist’s toolkit. Look for brushes with handles made of bamboo or other fast-growing woods. Also, consider brushes where the bristle material is plant-based or synthetic, rather than animal-derived.
Canvas and Textiles
The origin of the canvas material is critical. Traditional cotton canvases have a high environmental impact due to the farming and manufacturing process. Hemp canvas, however, proves to be a sustainable alternative due to hemp’s natural insect resistance and ability to grow in dense clusters, reducing land usage.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
The most sustainable art supplies consider not only the product but its packaging. Look for minimal packaging, recyclable or compostable materials, and plant-based inks. Grafix and Fredrix artist canvas are two brands that emphasize recyclable packaging.
The sustainability movement in the art world is a tribute to the increasing consciousness about our role in preserving the environment. By choosing eco-friendly art supplies, artists can reduce the negative impact on the earth while still expressing their creativity. Just remember to look beyond the advertising, research your favorite brands, and make mindfully sustainable choices. Every effort made towards sustainability strengthens the global movement for a greener, healthier planet.
