KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2024 TO 2025

"Nothing is more important than ever to feel relaxed at home after a long day at work and be connected in the kitchen. That feeling would always give us the urge to think about placing our kitchen at the top of the list, whenever we plan for any upgrade or renovation in the house. Yet given the constant introduction of new equipment, design concepts, and finishes, you might be wondering which kitchen design trends will endure. So, what's worth investing in? And what are the items should you discard?" - Joey Castaneda, Architect

My involvement in food manufacturing projects earlier in my architectural career motivated me to compile these kitchen design trends. Aside from the design of huge food processing plants, I was also involved in the design of model kitchens for food outlets located in some shopping malls and other commercial establishments to promote a food based franchise business.

In my observation, the momentum started by recent trends, which included a focus on storage, accents with a natural theme, and modernized technology in fixtures, appliances, and lighting, is continuing up to last year. The simple luxury of organic style is complemented by recent kitchen designs, while improved utility is the primary objective of updates and renovations. With these seven kitchen design trends, you can make your kitchen function the way you want it to while also adding flair and substance that will last for years.

Here are seven kitchen design trends you may adapt for your homes this year:

1. Smart Kitchen

Appliances are becoming smarter nowadays. Technology advancements are no longer just for sound systems and media rooms; they are also making significant strides in the kitchen. The integrated smart-technology alternatives and systems that support end users' lifestyles have been revolutionary and appear to develop daily. Today, you may find technology incorporated into the majority of kitchen appliances and equipment. Same thing also applies with kitchen components from basic touch-closing cabinets to smart faucets that can be operated by your smart phones. The luxury kitchen design trend is truly moving toward smart kitchens. Experts point out that most clients are spending more time at home; they want their kitchens to simplify their day-to-day activities. You might be worrying this option is expensive and belongs to the elites. The good news is that, not anymore. As technology advances, older versions are still in the market and eventually become more affordable. Keep searching and you will find one that might suit your budget.

Another related factor is the energy efficiency of the equipment. Due to the increasing energy cost nowadays, this matter has been given the most attention whenever homeowners plan to do kitchen makeovers or extensions. However, this usually falls under the functional category, rather than aesthetical. Moreover, kitchen equipment manufacturers nowadays go with the design trend too, and even fashionable to the extent of blending, if not exactly matching, with specific color themes.

Just like automobiles, kitchen appliances nowadays are getting eco-friendly. But further than that, buyers nowadays are considering more factors such as ESG or Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance. This goes along with the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs. These must be new to your ears, but I believe there are some few enthusiasts who are already aware and conscious about these factors when buying products. Nevertheless, I am not an energy person, though I have concern with environment, but these are not my expertise, so I would not go any deeper into the subject matter. My main goal is to provide you with some useful design pointers, hoping the items I have compiled would somehow bring about valuable thoughts on your decision making whenever you think about a kitchen make-over or incorporating some of them, if not all, in building your new homes. Well, you may want to apply these ideas in other parts of the house too. Why not?

2. Natural Wood Tones

There is no doubt that natural wood is still a material of choice for most clients and home experts. Wood helps to provide organic vibes and natural accent to the kitchen by connecting it to the outside environment. However, the trend does not actually allow the material to dominate the arena. To maintain a contemporary touch, wooden surfaces blend along with granite working countertops.

3. Glass Cabinet Doors

We just could not hide the fact that we always lusted for the elegance of glass in every part of the house, office or building facades. Have you noticed lately that not only the dining or terraces are equipped with glass doors? Wooden or plain kitchen cabinets nowadays are being combined with a couple of glass doors, mostly frosted type, regardless of function, whether decorative or storage.

4. Mirror Splash Backs

My earlier career dictates the now called traditional design trend when we used to specify the same materials for the countertop and the wall. However, you yourselves would notice some new kitchens today with separate material for the horizontal and vertical surface. And to take note, glasses or mirrors are now the higher end choice for the wall which adds elegance and extended kitchen appearance. To add a few, it also adds extra mirror function for the end user, some would enjoy such ambiance while working in the kitchen, or simply just pouring out drink or having a quick snack. Of course, this type of idea should be categorized into the personalized option. They still could go for other materials or colors of their choice, depending on their personality, as long as it is compatible without compromising designer’s recommendations. Some would consider the cost of the material, which is somewhat practical for both sides.

5. Bold Lighting

Kitchens nowadays are drastically stealing the entertainment limelight at home and becoming an instant rock star, a title traditionally owned by the living or dining rooms. Of course, in every entertainment event, the star of the show always earns the brightest and most sophisticated lighting. That is why from the dim lighting trend during my younger days, pendant lighting is the best choice today.                                                                                                                                                                 

This revolution was brought about by the recent lifestyle trend which turns cooking as a good way to entertain guests, where homeowners are able to show-off their talents, rather than sitting down in the living room watching TV. Of course, the role of the designers is to adjust with such lifestyle change in order to stay in tune. To create interest, interior designers usually play with the size of the lighting fixtures, up to the extent of recommending industrial-style options, that breaks up the lines and create vibrant silhouettes. This works well with clients who don’t just think about a facelift, but also considering a slight expansion of the kitchen area.

6. Stand out Taps

Another design trend that is becoming more popular these days is the use of stand-out taps. The increasing demand makes manufacturers produce a selection of finishes such as silver, brass and the standard chrome. But the black and white ones are eventually becoming the mainstream in the market. New kitchens without stand out taps couldn’t really represent the title “new kitchen” at all. So whether you do the purchasing yourself or your contractor does it for you, make sure you add one in your shopping cart.

7. Kitchen Plants

Another way of bringing the outside in is putting plants on the vacant spaces or shelves in kitchens, dining and even the living area. Besides filtering the air naturally and enhancing our mood, house plants are not just a trend considering its long-lasting popularity. Not to mention its never-ending blend with wooden finishes or furniture pieces.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Considering all the above-mentioned design trends, there is one characteristic of modern kitchen that applies to all. It's none other than a "minimalist kitchen." Our cover photo above represents as a good example.

Planning a renovation or not, I would greatly advise that you always love your kitchen. Remember that this is a space that brings the whole family together and at the same time will help you entertain guests. If ever you want to push through with the plan, whether you decide to go with the trend or just your heart, have fun with it. Make sure it addresses your needs, and keep in mind that even though remodeling process might be so tedious and occasionally exhausting, it will be worth it in the end.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

Linked-in Account:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-castaneda-5a8677a3?trk=contact-info

TIPS ON SELECTING THE BEST SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM FOR YOUR PROJECTS

 

Solar power has become a popular and affordable source of energy for households and businesses. Solar energy is probably the world's most abundant renewable energy source. However, the uptake of solar panels has been sluggish due to quality concerns. Recent technological developments have increased the dependability of solar panels even further. However, not every solar panel can provide your house with dependable energy.

Spending more than usual is one of the crucial things you have to deal with if you want high-quality solar panels. However, if you invest in a high-quality solar product, you won't have to worry about paying for electricity for up to 30 years.

UNDERSTANDING THE FUNDAMENTALS

Solar energy is captured from the sun by solar panels, which then transform it into electrical power.

Individual solar cells, each consisting of layers of silicon, boron, and phosphorus, make up a conventional solar panel. The silicon wafer serves as the semiconductor, while the phosphorus layer and the boron layer supply the positive and negative charges, respectively.


Photons from the sun hit the panel's surface, displacing electrons from the silicon "sandwich" and directing them into the electric field produced by the solar cells. This produces a directed current that can subsequently be converted into useful power.  

Solar panels are also referred to as photovoltaic or PV panels because the entire process is called the photovoltaic effect. Usually, a solar panel has 60, 72, or 90 separate sun cells.

Picking the best solar panels might be difficult given the abundance of possibilities. These are some crucial guidelines for selecting the best solar panels to assist you in making an informed choice.

1. Assess your energy requirements

It is important to determine your energy requirements first before venturing into the world of solar panels. Find out how much energy you use each day and each month in order to estimate how big of a solar panel system you will require. By determining your energy needs, you may choose the appropriate number and wattage of panels. Nevertheless, you must first determine your home's necessities before opting for the entire house.

2. Think about your budget

The cost of a solar panel can vary significantly based on its efficiency, technology, and brand. Establish a budget for your solar project that accounts for installation fees as well as any possible incentives or rebates. This spending limit will make it easier for you to select solar panels that fit your energy needs and are both affordable.

Examine prices

Although it shouldn't be your only consideration, comparing the costs of several solar panels can assist you in determining which one offers the most value for your money. Consider the cost per watt as well as the total cost of the parts, installation, and inverters that your solar system will require.

Examine rewards and rebates

Solar panel installations are eligible for incentives and rebates in several places. To find out if you qualify for any cash incentives, research regional and national initiatives. These can considerably reduce the solar panel system's initial cost.

3. Look into different types of solar panels

Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are the primary and the two most common varieties found in the market. Although they are often more expensive, monocrystalline panels are renowned for their greater efficiency and elegant appearance. Although polycrystalline panels have a somewhat lower efficiency, they are nonetheless effective and more affordable. 

An advancement above the conventional monocrystalline cell are PERC solar panels (passivation emitter rear contact cell). With this relatively new technology, the efficiency of the cell is increased by adding a passivation layer on its rear surface.

Another type is the thin-film panels. The thin, flexible layers that make up thin-film panels are incredibly fine. Because each panel doesn't need a frame support, they are lighter and simpler to assemble. In contrast to crystalline silicon panels, which are available in standard sizes with 60, 72, and 96 cells, thin-film panels can be customized to meet unique requirements. They are not as efficient as standard silicon solar panels, though, thin-film modules have a lower procurement cost, plus they can be less labor-intensive to install because of their flexibility and less weight.

Examine the advantages and disadvantages of each kind to decide which is most appropriate for your need.

4. Look up for product and service evaluations

To learn about actual consumers' experiences, read through other buyers' evaluations and ratings. Keep an eye out for prevalent grievances or problems and seek those panels that have received consistently good evaluations. Check the reputation of the maker. Purchasing solar panels from reliable producers is crucial. Examine the customer satisfaction rates, and brand history.

Review warranty and lifespan. Solar panels are a long-term investment, so it’s crucial to consider their durability and lifespan. Look for panels with extended warranties, typically 20-25 years, which is a good indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Additionally, research the expected lifespan of the panels and their degradation rate, as this can affect their long-term performance.

Consider client service. When buying solar panels, customer service is extremely important, particularly if you have any problems during or after installation. If you have any queries or problems, get in touch with the seller or manufacturer to see how responsive and helpful they are. Reputable businesses are more likely to offer trustworthy customer service and high-quality items.

5. Assess efficiency and output

The efficiency of solar panels is a critical factor in their performance. High-efficiency panels convert more sunlight into electricity, which can be especially valuable if you have limited roof space. Check the panel’s efficiency rating and output per square foot to ensure you’re getting the most power for your investment.

6. Recognize solar panel accreditations

Independent certification bodies, like the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL), generally impose stringent quality and safety requirements on solar panels. To ensure the dependability and safety of the panels you are considering, be sure they have these certifications.

7. Verify the suitability

Make sure the solar panels you intend to install yourself are compatible with the electrical system you currently have. To guarantee a flawless integration, go over the compatibility criteria with the expert installer you are working with.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It's important to carefully evaluate a number of aspects when selecting the best solar panels, including your energy needs, budget, the efficiency of the panel, and the reputation of the manufacturer. Before choosing, it's critical to complete your homework, read reviews, and acquire as much information as you can. You may make an informed decision that helps the environment and your pocketbook by paying attention to these pointers. As solar panels are an investment for the long term, take your time selecting the models that best suit your requirements.

LIST OF LAWS ESSENTIAL TO THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

 

Prior to commencing any project, it is essential to be able to gain the fundamentals, if not the complete knowledge of the essential laws relevant to the professional practice of Architecture in the Philippines. According to Professional Regulation Commission website, https://prc.gov.ph/architecture, the practice of architecture is hereby defined to be: “The act of planning, architectural and structural designing, specifying, supervising, and giving general administration and responsible direction to the erection, enlargement or alterations of buildings and architectural design of engineering structures or any part thereof, the scientific, aesthetic and orderly coordination of all the processes which enter into the production of a complete building or structure performed through the medium of unbiased preliminary studies of plans, consultations, specifications, conferences, evaluations, investigations, contract documents and oral advice and directions regardless of whether the persons engaged in such practice are residents of the Philippines or have their principal office or place of business in this or another country, and regardless of whether such persons are performing one or all of these duties, or whether such duties are performed in person or as the directing head of an office or organization performing them.”

The Architecture Act of 2004, also known as Republic Act No. 9266 (listed below), is the primary legislation that governs the practice of architecture in the Philippines. This law sets out the qualifications, registration requirements, and code of conduct for architects practicing in the country. Aside from this law, there are quite a number of others that are essential to the practice such as those concerning the environment, accessibility, fire, human settlement, etc.

My main objective in writing this article is to help students. professionals and even workers in the construction industry to be able to refer to a single landing page where they could access all the necessary links directly to the specific laws needed for any specific activity they are involved in. It would be an advantage to have the technical knowhow of these laws so that every construction team member will be aware of the architectural aspect of the industry for proper coordination and smooth workflow.

The following are selected references and document links for the above purpose:

LAWS DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9266

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 545, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES," AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://www.prc.gov.ph/uploaded/documents/ARCHITECTURE%20LAW.PDF

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES 

MALACAÑANG Manila PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1096 ADOPTING A NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES THEREBY REVISING REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SIXTY-FIVE HUNDRED FORTY ONE

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/national_law

IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES (PD 1096) OFFICIAL TEXT 2005 REVISED EDITION

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/PD1096

ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AFFECTING ARCHITECTURE

THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE 

June 2015 A Referral Code of the NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/pgbc

Philippine Green Building Code Full Text and User Guide; GB Code Checklist-Architectural; GB Code Checklist Electrical and ECE; GB Code Checklist-Mechanical; GB Code Checklist-Plumbing and Sanitary

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/guidelines_manuals/green_building

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1308 March 2, 1978

REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF THE PROFESSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING IN THE PHILIPPINES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/presdecs/pd1978/pd_1308_1978.html

ACCESSIBILITY LAW

Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/bpb344

Enforcement of the Accessibility of the Law (BP 344) along National Roads

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/references/laws_codes_orders/enforcement_bp344

FIRE SAFETY CODE

FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, RA9514 IRR as of June 26, 2009

https://bfp.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Fire-Code-of-the-Philippines-2008-IRR.pdf

HOUSING LAWS

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 957 July 12, 1976

REGULATING THE SALE OF SUBDIVISION LOTS AND CONDOMINIUMS, PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF

https://lawphil.net/statutes/presdecs/pd1976/pd_957_1976.html

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1216

DEFINING "OPEN SPACE" IN RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISIONS AND AMENDING SECTION 31 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 957 REQUIRING SUBDIVISION OWNERS TO PROVIDE ROADS, ALLEYS, SIDEWALKS AND RESERVE OPEN SPACE FOR PARKS OR RECREATIONAL USE

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/irr_11201_2019.html

THE IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 11201, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENT AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ACT”

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/irr_11201_2019.html

LAWS OF OTHER PROFESSIONS RELATED TO ARCHITECTURE

Republic Act No. 8534, February 23, 1998

AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF INTERIOR DESIGN IN THE PHILIPPINES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1998/ra_8534_1998.html

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9053, March 30, 2001

AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHTECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2001/ra_9053_2001.html

Republic Act No. 1378 An Act To Regulate the Trade Of Master Plumber 

https://legisph.com/statute/republic-act-no-1378

REPUBLIC ACT 9003 January 26, 2001

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR AN ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, CREATING THE NECESSARY INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS AND INCENTIVES, DECLARING CERTAIN ACTS PROHIBITED AND PROVIDING PENALTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2001/ra_9003_2001.html

DISCLAIMER: While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this blog has been obtained from reliable sources, Architalktural is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided "as is", with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All information are provided solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as a professional service of any kind. In no event will Architalktural be liable for any decision made or action taken by the reader in reliance on the information derived from this site or any consequential, special or similar damages, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE WORLD OF ART

 

“Our culture is evolving at this time to become more active and socially conscious. Talks about sustainability, the environment, and social consciousness are being led by creative industries including fashion, architecture, and visual arts. Such movement is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future in art by fusing ecological responsibility with creative innovation. In the first half of this article, we'll delve into the fascinating world of environmentally conscious art, beginning from defining it, digging into its history, examining a variety of cutting-edge sustainable materials, up to discovering interesting ways on how to incorporate them into your artwork."

Sustainability in art has sparked the creation of ground-breaking pieces that combine cutting-edge technologies and materials that deliver strong messages about social issues such as injustice, political instability, and climate change. Now, what is sustainable art in its entirety and who are the real superheroes that are still in the battlefield today? The concluding half of this article examines sustainability artists' works, their categories in the field, and their specific advocacies.”

WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY?

Determining a precise definition of sustainability is challenging because ideas about it change over time and between literary works. However, in our era, which is called the Anthropocene, sustainability can be broadly understood as a societal goal that aims for the harmonious coexistence of humans and other species on planet Earth. The term "Anthropocene" is derived from the Greek word “anthropos”, which means "man." It refers to a geological unit of time during which the effects of human activity on the environment have begun to show devastating effects, including climate change, natural imbalances, and the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. In an effort to ensure that humans can coexist peacefully with other species in more thriving ecosystems for many generations to come, society is shifting toward a more sustainable way of living. Thus, a personal meaning has formed into my senses that "Sustainability is everybody's responsibility."

WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE ART?

The term "sustainable art," like most things in the art world, has quite a number of definitions. While some artists use ecologically friendly materials and studio techniques in their work, others are primarily concerned with addressing environmental issues. Furthermore, sustainable art is not just found in the visual arts category, but also frequently appears in fashion and architecture, among other fields.

Fashion designers and manufacturers are coming up with ways to prolong the life cycle of garments, utilize more eco-friendly color dyes, and use less water in the production process by using closed-loop fashion and circular economies.

In an agricultural prefecture in Japan called Ibaraki, not too far from Tokyo, there is a town who does this sustainable fabric dyeing. They dye each fabric by hand using agricultural waste such as tomato stems from local farmers; discarded items like tree branches and leaves are used as well. The company also conducts in-house dyeing workshops, organizes dyeing and harvesting retreats fostering interactions with farmers, and holds dyeing lessons at schools, etc. to highlight the region's agricultural potential and charm.

https://www.futashiba248.com/

Architects use eco-paints and other reclaimed and recycled materials, even on the wall finishings, floors and countertops, to name a few. Check out one of my blog which talks about sustainable architecture:

https://architalktural.blogspot.com/2024/02/sustainability-begins-in-kitchen-would.html

Artists, authors, filmmakers, and performers are also becoming more and more interested in addressing environmental and sustainable issues in their works.

QUITE A LITTLE BACKGROUND

Sustainable art is not really a new idea. Although the phrase "sustainable art" is relatively new, numerous artists from various cultures have long employed sustainable practices before the term was coined. For many years, eco-artists have included environmental themes and issues into their works. African art, for instance, has a long history of using natural materials in a way that honors the environment. Examples of this include body painting, weaving, and fashion, to mention a few, as well as functional and sculptural works made of clay and wood that are passed down through the generations.

Large-scale works were made by Land Art Movement artists in the natural environment. These installations frequently included organic materials like wood, rocks, and soil. By bringing attention to the interaction between people and the environment, these artists hope to get people thinking about how we affect the earth. Around the same time, the Earthworks movement, which is closely tied to Land Art, rose to popularity. Environmental restoration was the primary aim of Earthworks artists who created works of art to restore damaged ecosystems.

Upcycling is another example; it may be seen in African art as well, although it is most prominently practiced in Japanese culture. For instance, “kintsugi” is the tradition of fixing broken ceramics and pottery that contain gold traces in order to celebrate imperfection and reduce waste. Upcycling remains a dominant Sustainable art form used by many fine and contemporary artists today.

The idea of sustainable art has expanded over time to include a greater range of environmental concerns in addition to artwork, such as the materials used by artists, waste reduction efforts, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices that can lessen the environmental impact of their work. Many artists have joined the push in the art industry toward sustainability as a result of this change in focus.

ART-FRIENDLY, ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

Now, the term "sustainable art" refers to a broader variety of environmental concerns as well as artwork, including the materials used by artists, waste reduction, and adopting eco-friendly practices that might lessen the environmental impact of their work. Many artists have now joined the art world's push toward sustainability as a result of this change in focus.

RECLAIMED WOOD

Reclaimed wood is now a popular and adaptable medium in art. Reclaimed wood, which comes from abandoned structures, shipping pallets, or fallen trees, enables artists to produce one-of-a-kind, eye-catching pieces while cutting down on waste and deforestation. Reclaimed wood has a rustic and natural appearance that gives artwork depth and personality. It can be utilized for installations, sculptures, or frames for painting canvases.

ECO-PAINTS

Additionally, gaining popularity are eco-friendly paints, which use natural binders and pigments with lower volatile organic compounds (VOC) and hazardous chemical contents than conventional paints. For artists who want to switch, brands like Earth Paints, Natural Earth Paint, and Bioshield provide a variety of eco-friendly paint and other solutions.

RECYCLED METAL

Recycled Metal is another sustainable material gaining traction in the art world. Artists like El Anatsui and Vik Muniz have gained international recognition for their use of discarded metal objects and industrial scraps, such as aluminum, copper, steel, and brass, to create unique sculptures and installations while reducing waste and conserving resources.

PLASTIC

While plastics have been incredibly useful in many industries due to their durability, versatility, and low cost, they also pose significant environmental problems. Most plastics are not biodegradable persisting for hundreds or even thousands of years, which leads to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills, oceans, and other ecosystems. Biodegradable and plant-based plastic alternatives are eco-friendly alternatives derived from renewable resources like corn, sugarcane, and algae. Compared to conventional plastics, they are more environmentally friendly and can decompose more quickly.

ORGANIC TEXTILES It is also possible to incorporate organic textiles into the artwork, such as hemp, linen, and cotton. These materials are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Artists can use organic textiles for tapestries, wall hangings, or mixed media pieces, blending sustainability with creative expression.

NATURAL OBJECTS

Natural and Found Objects can create distinctive and thought-provoking pieces that engage with the natural world by adding elements such as leaves, branches, rocks, or waste materials found in the surroundings. This strategy lessens the need for additional materials and encourages discussion about how people, the environment, and art are related.

IMPORTANT SUSTAINABLE ARTISTS

AGNES DENES

Agnes Denes, also known as Dénes Ágnes, was born in Budapest in 1931. She is a New York-based conceptual artist of Hungarian descent. She is renowned for a variety of mediums, including poetry, philosophical writings, incredibly detailed drawings, sculptures, and iconic land art pieces like Tree Mountain—A Living Time Capsule (1992–1996) in Ylöjärvi, Finland, and Wheatfield — A Confrontation (1982), a two-acre field of wheat in downtown Manhattan commissioned by the Public Art Fund. Her work Rice/Tree/Burial with Time Capsule (1968–79) is regarded as one of the first examples of ecological art. She resides and creates in New York City.

EL ANATSUI

Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, born on February 4, 1944, spent the majority of his career working in Nigeria. His "bottle-top installations" have garnered him significant international recognition. These installations are made up of thousands of aluminum pieces that are taken from alcohol recycling centers and are connected by copper wire to create wall sculptures that resemble metallic cloth. Although these materials appear rigid and strong, they are actually pliable and free, which frequently facilitates installation of his sculptures. Anatsui was listed among the world's most influential individuals in the Time 100 list for 2023.

ANDY GOLDSWORTHY

Andy Goldsworthy is well-known as an environmental artist, well known for his site-specific sculptures and Land art. Born in England, Goldsworthy began working on several farms at the age of 13. His sculpture method is mostly based on rhythm and regularity, which he draws inspiration from the repetitive nature of farm work. He once compared the creative process to "picking potatoes." In his artwork, Goldsworthy uses organic materials such as wood, clay, stone, and flower petals. He states that his primary objective is to cultivate a bond between his audience and the natural world. Engaging with the natural cycles of creation and destruction, Goldsworthy views nature as a partner in his work. Through his art, he frequently draws attention to the beauty of nature and celebrates its organic patterns.

MAYA LIN

Maya Ying Lin is an American designer and sculptor who was born on October 5, 1959. She became well-known across the country in 1981 while attending Yale University as a student after winning a national design competition for the proposed Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Landscapes, sculptures, public and private buildings, and memorials have all been designed by Lin. She is well-known for her historical memorials, but she is also well-known for her environmentally oriented pieces, many of which deal with environmental degradation. Lin claims that although nothing she makes can compare to the beauty of nature's architecture, she finds inspiration in it.

FINAL THOUGHTS

COLLECTIVELY PAINT A GREENER FUTURE

Artists are adopting more sustainable artistic methods and collaborating with scientists to help spread awareness of the seriousness of the climate problem as society grows more conscious of its effects on the environment and the planet's imminent peril. Sustainability is about making decisions that don't hurt the environment and being aware of how we use and produce goods. Through their artistic endeavors, artists are actively working to bring about social change in our communities and are fully committed to the idea of a better future for everyone.

The success of the sustainable art movement is a credit to the inventiveness, passion, and hard work of artists who are determined to change the world. Artists have the ability to inspire audiences and improve the environment at the same time by implementing these strategies and utilizing eco-friendly materials. We are constructing an art world that prioritizes responsibility and beauty with each eco-art work we produce, eco-friendly habits we embrace, and people we impact through our eco-practices. So let's get our paintbrushes out, get dirty, and let's paint a greener future together! It's a noble choice...

JOEY CASTANEDA

Author

Important sources and acknowledgment:

-Wikipedia.com for artists featured.

-Stock photos taken from Pexel.com and Pixabay.com

For all your wall art needs, visit our arts and crafts page:

https://www.facebook.com/lapislazuliartsncrafts