My Journey towards Sustainable Creativity
Rediscovering Value through Wood Art
In a world dominated by Western consumerism, I felt increasingly disconnected and overwhelmed. I found myself just going through the motions, following the crowd without a real sense of purpose. Amid this feeling of conformity, the deeper meaning and significance of life seemed to slip away, leaving me yearning for a deeper, more meaningful existence.
Driven by this yearning, my journey at the age of 18 took me to the distant realms of Asia, the first step toward unearthing novel perspectives and experiencing life through a new lens. As I immersed myself in the cultures of countries undergoing rapid economic and social development, a new understanding emerged. I saw how people there viewed the concepts of “value,” “discard,” and “purpose” differently from what I was accustomed to. Their ability to find purpose in seemingly insignificant things and the simplicity of life struck me deeply, leading me to realize that what we consider excess or disposable could hold immense value for others.
The terms “waste,” “trash,” and “garbage” took on a new meaning for me. They seemed like excuses we used to dismiss the potential value in objects that only needed a bit of care and attention to shine. I realized that everything possesses value when treated with the respect it deserves.
During my travels, I encountered the concept of sustainability – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (RRR). This method resonated with me as a way to decrease our impact on the planet by repurposing and recycling existing items. The idea of breathing new life into seemingly worthless objects resonated deeply, not just environmentally but creatively as well.
This perspective inspired the birth of “Wood Art.” Through this medium, artists like myself can express themselves without contributing to the cycle of excessive consumption. “Wood Art” is a counterpoint to our disposable culture, offering a platform for creative expression while honoring the environment. My journey revealed that waste is a human construct, hiding the potential in worn and used materials.
Guided by the principles of “reduce, reuse, and recycle,” “Wood Art” thrives on using what’s already available – old panels, discarded doors, forgotten shelves – to create something entirely new. By crafting from reclaimed wood and repurposed materials, I transform these elements into works of art that breathe with renewed vitality.
“Wood Art” isn’t merely a label; it’s a mission challenging conventional paths, encouraging change and innovation. Through each piece I create, I aim to ignite inspiration in others, showing them an alternative way of life marked by self-sufficiency and freedom. It’s about infusing norms and values into the very essence of existence.
This philosophy extends beyond aesthetics, showcasing resourcefulness and untapped value. My artworks embody a journey, mindset, and fervor for a greener, sustainable world.
For me, Wood Art encapsulates nature that symbolizes the essence of life. As the Danish designer and furniture maker Hans J. Wegner said: “Love of wood is something that all mankind has in common”. As an artist, I find value in my surroundings, reflecting nature’s intricacies in my creations. Wood, which originates from trees, embodies the cycle of life, connecting us to the Earth and more importantly wood and trees are the symbols of life and our survival.
But I also want to give you (the reader) some 5 little insights into what inspired me as a maker but also as a human being to start this journey of expressing myself through the form of Wood Art.
