From the outset, the Institute of Ecotechnics understood that it was vital to include scientists, artists, thinkers of many disciplines, cultures and backgrounds. To lead a balanced life, at I.E.-consulted projects, the program has included work in ecology, enterprise and theater (as a collective art form). So it is especially gratifying to celebrate the successful completion of the 2024 artist-in-residence grant program at Las Casas, where local and foreign artists are demonstrating the beauty and usefulness of the fibers and woods of the rainforest.
Introduction to the Artist Residency
From July 6th to August 5th, 2024, Las Casas de la Selva hosted it’s first artist residency, welcoming four talented artists from Puerto Rico, Spain, and Chile. This initiative aimed to inspire and encourage the use of wood as a medium of expression in contemporary art. It represents a meeting point between creativity, sustainability, and ecology, emphasizing the significance of natural materials in the artisan’s craft.Supporting Artists Through Sustainable Practices. This art residency took place thanks to Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña, Institute of Ecotechnics, October Gallery, London, and Puerto Rico Hardwoods, Inc.
The residency offered a comprehensive supportive environment for the selected artists. Participants accessed sustainably harvested wood and well-equipped wood workshops. This combination empowered artists to explore the versatility of wood and utilize it for their artistic creations. Furthermore, Las Casas de la Selva provided meals, board, and stipends, ensuring that artists could focus primarily on their craft without financial strain. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering creative talent while nurturing the planet through responsible practices.
Multidisciplinary Integration of Art and Ecology
Las Casas de la Selva is committed to a multidisciplinary integration of art, culture, sustainability, and ecology. The wood-artists had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local ecosystem, engaging with the environment that serves as both inspiration and material for their work. This residency not only emphasizes the creative potential of wood but also highlights how sustainable practices can be woven into the artistic process. The aim is to create awareness about the beauty of wood as an artistic medium and the importance of environmental stewardship.