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Abstract
This study explores the evolving connection between sculpture and the circular economy, a regenerative economic model designed to minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency. This study delves into the key principles of the circular economy and its application to the world of art, particularly within the context of sculpture. Through a qualitative approach and design, our study sampled three artworks and examined how their artists were inspired by environmental concerns in Takoradi-Ghana. This allowed perspectives on diverse artistic styles and cultural contexts of artists and their principles of sustainability, especially the choice of materials that have minimal environmental impact. Based on interviews and observatory data sourcing, the study revealed that the incorporation of discarded materials, upcycling, and recycling techniques highlights the crucial role of sculpture in promoting the circular economy and fostering ecological reflections. This approach demonstrates the potential of sustainable art to inspire art students and teachers, driving cultural shifts towards more environmentally conscious practices in the Takoradi metropolis of Ghana.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Public interest statement
The artworks created within the framework of the circular economy become potent agents of environmental awareness. Sculptures that narrate stories of transformation, utilising discarded materials, prompt environmental artists to reflect on their own consumption patterns and consider the ecological impact of their choices. While the circular economy offers a promising framework, the adoption of circular design principles in sculpture poses unique challenges. Balancing aesthetics with circularity, ensuring the durability of materials, and navigating the constraints of modularity are intricacies that environmental artists must navigate to fully embrace circularity. A key conclusion is the necessity of collaboration and cross-industry integration. Artists, industries, and policymakers should forge strong and more partnerships that encourage the circular supply chain. This collaboration can lead to innovations in material sourcing, waste reduction, and the creation of closed-loop systems within the artistic ecosystem.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Evans Kwadwo Donkor
Evans Kwadwo Donkor is Associate Professor in the Sculpture Technology Department, Takoradi Technical University. He is best known for his composite sculptures made from scrap metals and discarded automobile parts and other industrial detritus. Donkor has a PhD in Arts & Culture from University of Education, Winneba.
Fredrick Boakye-Yiadom
Fredrick Boakye-Yiadom is Associate Professor in the Department of Sculpture Technology, Takoradi Technical University. Boakye-Yiadom is a conservation and restoration artist with a PhD in Arts & Culture from the University of Education, Winneba. He works with metal and cement materials.
Owusu-Ansah Ankrah
Owusu-Ansah Ankrah is Associate Professor in the Department of Sculpture Technology, Takoradi Technical University. Ankrah’s sculpture uses scattered and unwanted aluminium materials (scraps) and casting. He holds a PhD in Arts & Culture from the University of Education, Winneba.
Victor Kweku Bondzie Micah
Victor Kweku Bondzie Micah is Professor in the Sculpture Technology Department and doubles as Pro Vice Chancellor of Takoradi Technical University. He holds a PhD in Arts & Culture from University of Education, Winneba and MFA (Fine Art), BFA (Fine Art) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi. Micah is a practicing sculptor and teaches art courses. He has published books, research publications and participated in several art exhibitions in Ghana.