350 artists

Adding to the list of things I think are great...check out 350.org and in particular their section on artists.

Finding connection between art and environment is a key part of my job. Typically when I see environmental groups try to involve art in their programs, it takes the form of an art contest. These contests tend to be vaguely worded calls to "demonstrate what the environment/Puget Sound/trees/climate/fill-in-the-blank mean to you." For that reason, I'm always impressed with groups who go beyond.

There are a number of local Seattle artists who explore environmental issues and recycled materials in their work; Buster Simpson, Susan Robb, SuttonBeresCuller, and Mandy Greer are just a few who I happen to be familiar with. I like to think of the arts broadly, and feel inspired by the work of groups like Sustainable Style Foundation, Urban Wilderness Project, and FareStart. I also know a couple of super-crafty, LEED-certified architects...more on them later...

I am involved in the early planning stages for the Imagine Tomorrow competition, a program of Sustainable Seattle. This summer I will also serve as a judge for aLIVe: a Low Impact Vehicle exhibit. Both of these programs will challenge artists and designers to think differently about our cityscapes and the changes needed to build a more sustainable future.

So, calling all designers! I know you are out there. Take up the challenge, I implore invite you!