Nichola Rodgers’ work sits at the intersection of art and nature. In essence, her art practice is a continuous exploration of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature. She embraces the ephemeral and celebrates the sustainable. By reviving ancient foraging rituals, embracing sustainable materials, and delving into themes of nesting and accumulation, Nichola Rodgers aims to foster a deeper connection with the environment and promote eco-conscious practices within the arts. This journey is not just about creating art but about engaging with the world in a way that is mindful, respectful, and harmonious.
An evolving arts practice…
“Through this journey, I have found a deeper respect for the natural world and a renewed sense of freedom in my creative process. I look forward to continuing this evolving exploration, reconnecting with ancient practices, and fostering a harmonious relationship between art, nature, and community.”
“Growing up in the North of England, I have been profoundly influenced by the landscapes and cultural narratives that surrounded me. My artistic journey began with traditional, object-focused art forms, providing a sense of permanence and security. However, as I delved deeper into environmental concerns, I began to question the sustainability and ecological impact of my materials and methods.”
Exploration of Foraging Rituals
Nichola Rodgers’ exploration of foraging rituals has been a pivotal aspect of her transformation.She considers them as overlooked art forms intrinsically linked to womanhood and sustainable living.
“Engaging in these practices, I investigate how these rituals faded over time, identify steps to reclaim them, and demonstrate their essential role in fostering a sustainable future.
By gathering plants, berries, and organic materials from the land, I started creating my own pigments and inks, exploring the edible, medicinal, and creative potentials of these natural resources. This alignment with an eco-conscious philosophy not only reflected my commitment to sustainability but also introduced a liberating sense of creative freedom.
My materials now often embrace impermanence and biodegradability, mirroring the cyclical nature of life and challenging traditional notions of art as something that must endure indefinitely. This practice has awakened a connection between women and the earth, long forgotten, buried deep within our psyche, waiting to be explored. This journey has reconnected me with these ancient traditions, weaving together my love for nature, foraging, and a newfound yearning to explore the enigmatic realms of womanhood.
Incorporation of Natural Materials
“Today, my art practice centres on the fluidity of humanity within our landscape and the exploration of lost connections with nature. I investigate how the ephemeral can nourish and heal our minds and bodies while contributing to sustainability in the arts, by incorporating natural materials into my work.
I have experimented with Kombucha SCOBYs as sculptural mediums and explored mushroom-based paper-making techniques. These sustainable practices not only reduce environmental impact but also challenge traditional, object-focused art methods. Through these explorations, I seek to offer new perspectives on the relationship between art, sustainability, and womanhood. For me, the process—the act of collecting, creating, and engaging with the natural world—is as important as the final product.”
Community Engagement
Community engagement and collaboration are vital components of Nichola Rodgers’ practice. As a co-founder of Haus-a-rest, an online art zine, she collaborates with artists, writers, poets, and theorists to showcase both emerging and established creatives. Her commitment to community extends to organising exhibitions in unconventional spaces, ranging from pop-up galleries in disused buildings to larger shows in commercial venues, both locally and internationally, to helping set up a local food pantry and food allotment.
