ABSTRACT At a time when the world is beset by ecological crises, ecological art offers inspiration, insight and innovation. This essay provides an overview of the artistic and scientific roots of the practice and illustrates the significant role that ecoart can play in the formulation, development and promulgation of a culture of sustainability.

The author argues for the importance of art in the exploration of ecological interrelationships. Art can help engender an understanding of and connection to the natural world, illuminate values and illustrate the myriad of ecological processes. Various artistic strategies used by the artist are discussed, including performances that document close observation of place, site-specific artwork that offers the opportunity to look at the natural and cultural environment in a new way, and digital imaging and web design that encourage a careful reading of representation through juxtaposition of imagery.