Nature’s Imprint Q+A with Featured Artist Josie Clouting

How Do You Incorporate Sustainability In Your Artistic Practice? What Challenges Have You Encountered When Creating Sustainable Art?

As an artist inspired by the natural landscape, working in an environmentally sustainable way is something I am always thinking about.

Having a sustainable practice is definitely challenging, especially as a painter creating artworks for sale. Using materials that are lightfast is important, which is why I use professional quality paints that have a higher pigment content and are less likely to fade than student quality paints. It’s great that there is now more awareness about how paints are made. Cadmium colours, for example, are heavy metals and very toxic, so there are now Cadmium free alternatives.

In the last couple of years I have switched from working mainly with acrylics to oils, initiated by feeling guilty when cleaning my brushes and watching the acrylic paint go down the sink! Although oils are not very sustainable, I feel when I clean my brushes in baby oil, store and reuse them is an improvement.

More recently, I have started painting on wooden panels made by Artist Surfaces. They use a poplar plywood that is sustainably sourced and PEFC and FSC certified. Working on wooden panels, as opposed to canvas, also gives me the option to sand back any unsuccessful paintings and reuse the boards.

I am planning to experiment with more natural pigments and paints. However, I think it will be a challenge to source a varied colour palette with natural materials. I love colour, and for me, having the option of many colours is part of the joy of painting.

What Inspired You To Explore Sustainable Practices Or Environmental Images In Your Work?

I love visiting wild places, and feeling simultaneously insignificant and small, and more connected to nature. I’m always striving to capture how it feels to be in these amazing places; to feel part of something bigger than yourself.

What Does It Mean To You To Be A Part Of ‘Nature’s Imprint: A Journey Through Time and Art’?

I’m delighted to be part of ‘Nature’s Imprint’, particularly as my recent body of work inspired by Norway resonates so well with the theme of the exhibition. Walking in the Hardangerfjord region, and experiencing the dramatic waterfalls, rock formations and glaciers really felt like journeying through time.

In Your Opinion, What Role Does Art Play In Addressing Environmental Issues?

I think art plays an essential role in addressing environmental issues because it creates awareness. Art can capture people’s imagination; it can bring back memories of a place; it can highlight environmental issues and remind people of the importance of reconnecting with nature.

What Do You Hope Viewers Take Away From Your Art?

I hope viewers can sense the joy I feel when I’m in these wild places that have inspired the work. I hope they are reminded of a place they connect to.