The Realization of Green Art

Many artists were “green” before they realized what green meant simply because canvases cost money many don’t have. Those artists that have long struggled to make ends meet were automatically green because when there was no money for new canvases, they turned to wood, cardboard and walls. The green classification is just a label for a characteristic of progressive culture that always existed, from art on skateboards to composting for free soil. But, in its modern, labeled state, its use is meant to help the average individual internalize the greening of every day life and to then apply those practices to their own existence. In art, we have the all female art collective The Younity to explain this to us.

The Younity is the brainchild of two native New Yorkers and artists, Alice Mizrachi and Toofly. While Toofly remains consistent, with roots in street art, now often transformed for products via licensing deals, Mizrachi’s work also shows a unique voice, and traces of influences that include Frida Kahlo, Picasso and, as evident in some sketches, Jean-Michel Basquiat. As her work progresses, her paintings and sketches tell a story of American culture and the struggles of minority groups, be they blacks or women.

All of this is why The Younity results in group shows that are both poetic and political. They make you grateful, happy and sad, because the vision of great work reminds us that the desired middle ground success state is nearly impossible to maintain, for any artist or performer. How does one achieve a state where they have the disposable income, time and freedom to pursue the projects they wish to, without escalating to the point where too much attention pushes them to star-factor level? How do they gain recognition but avoid rising to the level where too much fame turns their work into a manifestation of their celebrity, or just another product?

The Younity is a group working to ensure that women artists will have their day and their voices will continue to be heard. Projects like this ensure their visions will remain honest and organic. Among the collection of work being exhibited at 107 Suffolk in the Lower East Side, through Oct. 24, we connected with many pieces, which run the gamut from painted decks to portraits on recycled wood to handmade bags made from tossed fabric scraps. This is the new-old eco rendering, where art and product meet in an attempt to consume less, buy less, waste less and yet create more.

One young artist we think has a bright future across many artistic genres is Chanel Kennebrew. For this show, she exhibited two handmade duffles  compiled from fabric scraps. But, she also makes clothing and hot necklaces cut from old records.

Marthalicia Matarrita’s Environmental Escape. Is this the future?

Niz has been reusing for years, tapping old skateboard decks instead of walls or canvases for her artwork.

Kerri O’Connell’s work is a study in woodwork and modern street-inspired jewelry.

While few use VHS tapes for entertainment, some are using them as a surface to paint on.

What is a journey, a wonderland to you?

Wooden boxes + paint + leather = wearable art

goddess-cum-street queen

Mother Earth, au natural…

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