Abstract
The relentless drive of consumerism jeopardizes our efforts at reaching sustainability and avoiding ecological disaster. Worldwide, industry contributes 20% of all greenhouse gas emissions. By volume, the most highly demanded and dangerous materials are steel, paper, plastic, concrete and aluminum. Battling climate change is complex. Art has the potential to create heightened awareness and self-reflection. For my thesis body-of-work, I created sculptural forms suggestive of iconic pillars or columns in these five prescribed materials. My desire is to elicit much needed conversation and action on this pressing topic.