Let's Get Creative: Art for a Healthy Planet

by Jessica Rose, Jarett Sitter (Illustrator)

Overview

Environmental artists across the globe are using their creativity to help the environment and create a more sustainable world.

There’s no question that creating art makes our lives better. Just think about how happy you feel when you’re dancing, singing, painting or crafting. But have you ever stopped to think about how creating art might make the world better, too?

Environmental artists around the world are harnessing their creativity to help the planet. And their work isn’t just beautiful to look at. Some are creating important art that protects animal habitats, reclaims damaged natural environments, increases biodiversity and restores ecosystems. Others are raising awareness about local and global environmental challenges, including the climate crisis, soil erosion, pollution and habitat loss. Incredible art is featured, such as the Indigenous Art Park in Edmonton, artificial coral reef installations in the Caribbean Sea and a tree sculpture in Bristol, England, fitted with solar panels that can charge phones and computers. Let's Get Creative: Art for a Better World encourages young readers to explore how creativity can make the earth a cleaner and greener place for everyone.

The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781459832145
Publisher:	Orca Book Publishers
Publication date:	05/14/2024
Series:	Orca Think , #14
Pages:	96
Sales rank:	1,046,501
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.44(d)
Lexile:	1060L (what's this?)
Age Range:	9 - 12 Years

About the Author

Jessica Rose is a writer, editor and arts organizer who lives and works in Hamilton, Ontario. A passionate advocate for people and places, she works for a number of not-for-profit organizations focused on literacy, the arts, the environment, health and food security. A graduate of Carleton University’s School of Journalism, her writing includes the essay “Reclaiming Hamilton Through Artistic and Environmental Interventions” in Reclaiming Hamilton: Essays from the New Ambitious City (Wolsak and Wynn), Creating Healthy Communities (Rubicon Publishing) and the City of Hamilton Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP).

Jarett Sitter is a Chinese German Polish mixed media illustrator and animator. He graduated with a BFA in New Media from the University of Lethbridge and now works full-time freelance artist. In 2022 his children's book project The Curious Invitation, created for Willaim Joseph Agency, won three Anvil Awards. Jarett lives in Calgary, Alberta.

Editorial Reviews

Throughout the book is practical advice for readers on how to create sustainable, beautiful art. A must for school and public libraries.”

Booklist

A worthy addition to the ARTS section of the STEAM resources in your library or classroom. It is loaded with Canadian and global examples of the difference art is making in restoring and protecting the environment. It is also an excellent resource for raising awareness of how individuals, including students, can make a difference. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

This is a comprehensive book on a little-addressed topic. It encompasses a wide range of practical information and suggestions to readers to explore their own creativity in relation to the earth and its future.”

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News

06/01/2024

Gr 4–6—Art and architecture, environment, science, and activism are brought together in a heavily illustrated and clearly presented call for creativity. The opening chapter introduces arts and crafts as pathways for change. Art is present everywhere and in all aspects of daily life; it can create a healthier planet when sustainable materials, no plastics, and less harmful paints are used. A circular economy in which found or recycled materials are used in artistic ventures not only reduces costs but aids the environment. Examples of art projects that have helped the environment directly (e.g., decorated windows preventing bird collisions, rooftop gardens that insulate and collect water) and the people responsible for them are briefly presented. Photographs and boldly lined illustrations are used throughout. "Artivism" and "craftivism" can be ways to use art and crafts to spread awareness and encourage others to recognize important topics, as well as to combat eco-anxiety. The book concludes with a glossary of terms used and additional resources. While heavily Canadian, examples from the United States and other countries are included, as are several Indigenous artists. VERDICT A useful though not essential addition for discussions of the intersection of art, science, and everyday activities.—Maria B. Salvadore.

School Library Journal