Definitions of “ecological art”, like organisms themselves, exist in a state of flux and are changeful and adapting. If an artwork causes us to reflect upon the beauty or movement of a bird can that work be considered ecological?For me the expression of an “ethic” in relation to ecology is a key thread in defining “ecological art”. Is there some kind of imperative or something in the work that is a call to action or greater mindfulness? Can an artwork stimulate changes in behaviour or thinking? Can it illuminate an ecological principle?
Some of the questions in my work include: At what point does habitat become the cage? Do our acts of animal displacement consider animal culture along evolutionary timeframes? If we consider animals as ecological actors are we able to recognize their dramas or set stages? To what extent do our symbolic, romantic or poetic perspectives help or hinder non-human animal culture?
