GREENIE #2

Tanis Alexis is a really talented, self-taught artist. Her bold and colorful eco-prints are printed at On Yor Marks Prints . I had never heard of this Canadian printing company but I'm happy Tanis introduced me to them. Too bad I'm not up in Canada to personally enjoy them but maybe one of my readers can. Click here and here to find out more about their "eco-logical ways". Tanis was sweet enough to take the time out of her crazy busy schedule to answer my questions and be a part of the Greenies! For more pictures and info, check out her website.

1. When did you decide to start making eco-friendly stuff and what triggered your going green? I grew up in a very grassroots community; I wrote an article about being green for my grade 6 school newspaper. I think working in the art department of the film industry after college really made it clear to me what I needed to do in my creative life and I began a quiet journey as an independent artist 3 years ago. I learned I needed to instil my personal values into my work and slowly evolved into a more eco-conscious artist. Today I continue to strive to keep my values such as: inspiring others, respect for the earth, and art for everyone into my business.

2. What recycled, reused, or eco-conscious materials do you typically use? What is your favorite?

Wool, felt, fibre (veggie and animal) wood, fabric, paper, anything I can salvage and reuse. I once made a series of ATC’s with dried acrylic paint flecks and recycled vinyl. Whatever I can get my hands on – but currently I am particularly fond of fabric, wool and felt.

3. What non-art or craft related things do you try to do to lead an eco-savvy life?
I try to do as much as I can with my budget to make a difference. Supporting locally, and ethically made products. Buying organic, eliminating chemicals in our home, and Always recycling. My dream is to some day build a solar powered cob house with my own two hands.

4. What is the one thing you wish people would do more of to contribute to the green cause?

I wish that folks would simply be more conscious of what they purchase and what they consume as well as what they inevitably throw away-the impact that it has on the rest of the world. That’s the biggest step in my opinion.

5. Do you have a green hero? Artist or environmentalist or just uber-eco friend?
All the people who alter their perspectives to include the planet and people we live with, is great by me.But I am particularly fond of my artist friends who include the earth into their creative and/or business mandates.

Thank you so much, Tanis!

{all images courtesy of Tanis Alexis}