We can easily frame the importance of a clean environment and healthy ecosystems in technical ways by discussing how a healthy wetland offers critical habitat, water purification and storm surge protection. But for many of us who care deeply about these things, the pathway to the environment landing in our hearts passes directly through our eyes.
Whether it’s the chance to revel the sight of an unspoiled vista, or the simple magic of finding that one perfect seashell on a beach, our visual experience of the natural world plays a huge part in our sense for why these things matter. And the vast wealth of visual riches contained in the natural world as a source for inspiration to artists is literally as old as art itself, as some very special caves in France and Spain will attest.
Founded in 1970 by a gathering of lawyers and law students who shared an interest in the developing environmental and conservation movements, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has evolved into one of the nation’s most prominent and effective environmental action organizations for their dedication to bringing law, policy and science to bear on addressing the preservation of habitat, global climate and clean energy among other pressing challenges.
In marking its 40th anniversatry, the organization announces its first-ever Environmental Art Prize. Visual artists are asked to submit a collection of exactly six images through Flickr. Entries must be environmentally themed, and may take the form of drawings, paintings, prints, or mixed media. No interpretive dance pieces are eligible for consideration, and same goes for photography, sculpture, and video.
Interested artists need to keep an eye on the calendar, as the deadline for submission is April 6; finalists will be announced on April 22, which just so happens to be another important 40th anniversary for those close to the environmental movement: this year, Earth Day turns 40. New York City’s Nabi Gallery has announced a June and July exhibition to feature the winning works, where members of the public will be able to share the inspiration as revealed through the chosen art pieces.
Details on the NRDC Environmental Art Prize, as well as a wide range of inspiring updates about NRDC’s projects and priorities, may be found on the organization’s website. So dig deep, artists! Look outside, then look within, and get your easels and paint sets ready for action as you speak for the planet through your visual creative gifts.
Photo by mikebaird via Flickr.