7.1 Concepts of time and change in Environmental Art

Environmental art often embraces temporality, challenging traditional notions of permanence. Artists use natural processes like growth, decay, and erosion to create works that change over time, reflecting life's transient nature and encouraging viewers to be present in the moment.

This approach aligns with Eastern philosophies emphasizing impermanence. It invites reflection on our interconnectedness with nature and promotes a mindful, present-focused experience of art and life, challenging us to confront our own mortality.

Concepts of Time and Change in Environmental Art

Temporality in environmental art

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  Peter Donnelly "Sand man" | discoverywall.nz View original

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  Andy Goldsworthy’s Ice and Snow Ephemeral Sculptures – AesthesiaMag View original

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  Sand mandala - Wikipedia View original

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  Peter Donnelly "Sand man" | discoverywall.nz View original

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  Andy Goldsworthy’s Ice and Snow Ephemeral Sculptures – AesthesiaMag View original

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Top images from around the web for Temporality in environmental art

• 

  Peter Donnelly "Sand man" | discoverywall.nz View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Andy Goldsworthy’s Ice and Snow Ephemeral Sculptures – AesthesiaMag View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Sand mandala - Wikipedia View original

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• 

  Peter Donnelly "Sand man" | discoverywall.nz View original

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• 

  Andy Goldsworthy’s Ice and Snow Ephemeral Sculptures – AesthesiaMag View original

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1 of 3

• Artworks often emphasize the temporary nature of the piece highlighting the fleeting quality of the artwork and the viewer's experience
• Encourages viewers to be present and fully engage with the artwork in the moment, knowing it may not exist in the same form in the future (Ice sculptures, Sand mandalas)
• Challenges traditional notions of art as permanent and unchanging, inviting a reevaluation of the value and purpose of artistic creation
• Reflects the transient nature of life itself, reminding viewers of the impermanence of all things (Seasons, Life cycles)

Natural processes in artwork

• Growth and decay of organic materials
  • Artists incorporate living plants or other organic matter that grow, wither, or decompose over time (Flowers, Moss, Leaves)
  • Showcases the transformative power of nature and the cyclical nature of life and death
• Erosion and weathering of inorganic materials
  • Artists use elements like sand, stone, or metal that are altered by wind, water, or other environmental factors (Driftwood, Rusted metal)
  • Highlights the effects of time and the environment on even seemingly solid and permanent structures
• Intentional design choice to embrace the unpredictable and ever-changing aspects of nature
• Invites viewers to observe and appreciate the beauty in the natural processes of transformation (Changing colors of leaves, Patina on copper)

Impermanence and artistic philosophy

• Accepting impermanence challenges the idea of art as a means to achieve immortality or leave a lasting legacy
• Encourages a deeper appreciation for the present moment and the unique experience of encountering the artwork
• Aligns with Buddhist and other Eastern philosophical traditions emphasizing the transitory nature of existence (Zen gardens, Tibetan sand mandalas)
• Promotes a sense of humility and non-attachment to material possessions or achievements
• Invites reflection on the interconnectedness of all things and the cyclical nature of life and death (Ecosystem interactions, Nutrient cycles)
• Encourages a more mindful and present-focused approach to experiencing art and life itself
• Challenges viewers to confront their own mortality and the impermanence of their own existence (Memento mori, Vanitas art)