Ecopsychology and Eco-printing

Also known as ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’ science speak for basically getting outside for at least two hours a week to strengthen mental wellbeing. I spend a lot of time outside as Nature constantly inspires and intrigues me. More so as climate change awareness has become so prominent over recent years.

During 2018 the area I live in had a weather event of intense torrential rain. After the storm calmed down, all local dog owners emerged more than ready for exercise including me and head of Studio Security, Nelson. Our nearby country park had become almost an inland sea. The Lake completely overflowed footpaths and low-lying areas. The Dam holding back this now massive lake was literally vibrating from water pressure forcing this large flood through wide open sluice gates. Water emerged from this sluice in a giant arc, creating foam like cream on top of coffee, into the catch lake. People had gathered on safe higher ground filming and photographing this new event phenomenon, such was the shocking scale of change in a short space of time.

Reflecting on this unusual storm, I decided to collect plant material that had been submerged. These samples went through an experimental process of eco-printing to see what effect complete submersion may have had on the plant pigments.

This began my creative exploration of both factual and fictional paintings around climate change.

So get your boots on and go outside today to explore, walk and enjoy strengthening your own ecopsychology!