New Growth

Allie Mercer, Sowing New Purpose

Seeds, recycled paper, 2022

I first became familiar with the process of papermaking in elementary school when recycling my old school papers to create seed paper for Earth Day. When we began to advertise for this exhibit, we misprinted numerous full color fliers. Rather than just disposing of them, I was able to recycle the paper by turning it to pulp, and adding wildflower seeds that attract pollinators, such as the bees pictured in its paired artwork. Consumption can feel almost unavoidable, even when making a statement against it. In creating an exhibit that raises awareness about the environment, the ironic truth is that many new materials had to be purchased. In hosting an opening reception, we are creating plastic and food waste. By upcycling the fliers in this way, a piece was created for the exhibit that required minimal new materials and can continue to serve purpose, even when it is breaking down. -Allie Mercer