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Portuguese artist Tomás João Carreira, known as ‘Nature the Artist‘, began his artistic practice in 2016, exploring various mediums such as painting, photography, video, and street installations. During this time, he created projects like ‘City Life‘, ‘Hunting Series‘, and ‘Sbeachless‘, all under his pseudonym, “Forest Dump”.
However, it was only recently that he fully embraced nature as the protagonist of his art. With Nature The Artist, Tomás focuses on exposing the natural phenomena that already exist in the world as true masterpieces. His works are characterised by the natural elements in caves, forests, oceans, and more, including meadow formations, fossils, and beehives. He allows natural processes to assume the role of authorship in his work, becoming a mere facilitator in the creative process.
Nature The Artist’s work not only calls attention to the power of the natural environment but also serves as a critique of humanity. He often creates participatory works that position the viewer in relation to the pieces, inviting them to consider their impact on the planet. Both the artist and the works employ a suggestive force intending to change behaviours as urgently as the planet needs us to do so.
Today, Nature the Artist’s work is gaining recognition for its unique and innovative approach to art, and his Lisbon exhibition ‘Chapter 1’ was a huge success. His dedication to promoting sustainability and preserving the environment through his art is truly inspiring and reflects his commitment to making the world a better place.
In our interview with Nature the Artist, we delve deeper into his unique perspective and creative process and what these new species of bees are trying to communicate.
Image Copyright Nature the Artist
GraffitiStreet
Would you tell us about your transition from 'Forest Dump' to 'Nature the Artist' and how your work has evolved since then?
Nature the Artist
When I embraced the notion of “Nature as the artist,” it sparked a profound inquiry central to my artistic exploration: Are we guilty of overvaluing human creations, dubbing their masterpieces, and thereby exposing the inherent narcissism within our species?
Furthermore, this perspective led my work to delve into natural expressions and explore the essence of humanity and the conditions that shape our species.
Nature the Artist. Copyright GraffitiStreet
GraffitiStreet
What draws you to nature as a source of inspiration for your art?
Nature the Artist
I was raised by the beach, engaging in activities like surfing, snorkelling, camping, and fishing. These experiences granted me ample time in natural environments. Being immersed in nature evokes a distinct feeling; amidst such surroundings, human constructs like laws and beliefs seem inconsequential.
On good days, this perspective allows me to contemplate human society from an outsider’s viewpoint. This, I believe, forms the foundation of all my work.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
Can you explain the process of allowing natural processes to assume the role of authorship in your work? How do you balance this with your own artistic vision?
Nature the Artist
Nature operates on its own schedule and in its own unique manner, demanding my respect and embrace. While navigating its processes often involves encountering failures, the moments of success provide me with the motivation to persevere and continue building upon my endeavours.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
How do you approach creating art from natural materials and phenomena? from conception to completion?
Nature the Artist
It all begins with a moment of discovery. Picture yourself in a location entirely enveloped by nature, stumbling upon something you perceive as intriguing—an object, an expression, perhaps a fungus, coral, or a creation of some animal. Then, the process unfolds as I endeavour to convey these findings in a manner that allows viewers to experience the same sense of wonder and fascination I felt during that initial discovery.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
How do you balance the preservation of natural environments and resources with your artistic expression?
Nature the Artist
Art serves as a powerful mode of communication, essential for addressing and resolving societal issues. It possesses the unique ability to articulate complex concepts through the language of emotions, which I believe is a profoundly impactful form of expression. However, I contend that the influence of art extends beyond mere problem exposition. It possesses the extraordinary potential to unify people, fostering collaboration and facilitating problem-solving efforts.
Throughout history, art has played a pivotal role in resolving numerous challenges, demonstrating its capacity to effect positive change and promote collective action.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
What challenges have you faced in working with new materials? How have you overcome them?
Nature the Artist
Trial and error has been the primary method through which I’ve accomplished much of my work.
The Colony by Nature The Artist (Tomás João) in Gasholders, King’s CrossThe Colony by Nature The Artist in King’s Cross. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
Your previous exhibition, "Last Chapter," was an extraordinary display of your artistic talents. We are thrilled to hear about your upcoming exhibition, "The Colony," in London. Could you share with us what inspired this new exhibition and give us a glimpse into what we can expect to see there?
Nature the Artist
I am thrilled to announce the unveiling of a groundbreaking discovery: a new species of insects within the bee family with whom we’ve established communication. These remarkable insects have learned to communicate with us, and I am seeking assistance in interpreting their messages.
Therefore, I invite everyone to join in studying them and drawing their own conclusions about what they endeavour to convey.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
I'm curious about where you source the honeycomb from. Is it natural? or honeycomb-like? Could you share with us the process you go through to obtain the honeycomb and how you incorporate it into your artwork?
Nature the Artist
For the protection of these species, I am unable to disclose the exact location where I have been realizing the studies. Although these creatures pose no threat to humans, we have yet to confirm the opposite.
The Colony Exhibition at Gasholders, the first UK exhibition of Lisbon-born artist, Tomás João, also known as Nature The Artist. Image Copyright John Sturrock
GraffitiStreet
Bees are known for their intricate and complex structures, as well as their ability to create incredible patterns and designs. What is it about the artistry within bees that fascinates you?
Nature the Artist
Describing all the fascinating features of bees would take an entire day. However, I can share one of the most incredible aspects of this species, aside from their intricate designs: the collective knowledge embedded within their DNA. Through this shared wisdom, they form colonies with a vast number of individuals, thriving and adapting successfully over many years. While humans often consider themselves the epitome of intelligence, perhaps there is much we can learn from the remarkable example set by bees.
The Colony by Nature The Artist (Tomás João) in Gasholders, King’s CrossThe Colony by Nature The Artist in King’s Cross. Image Copyright John Sturrock
Nature the Artist’s approach to art is a delicate balance between his own artistic vision and the natural elements that inspire his work. Through his art, Nature the Artist hopes to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and take action to protect it.
Our interview with Nature the Artist has given us a glimpse into the mind of a truly unique and innovative artist. His commitment to promoting sustainability and preserving the environment through his art is truly inspiring, and his work serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
Nature the Artist’s innovative exhibition, ‘The Colony’, held in London, showcases his exceptional approach to art and leaves visitors with an unforgettable, immersive experience as they view the beehive-like structures as the artist takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the impact of human behaviour on the natural world.
More information about the show can be found here.
The Colony exhibit invites the audience to approach beehive structures in near darkness to discover the residue of an unknown species, altering perceptions and emphasizing the ephemerality of nature. Nature The Artist aims to prompt self-reflection on human behaviour by positioning the viewer as the protagonist and reminding them of the fragility of existing natural masterpieces. The exhibit calls for action to shine a light on our impact on the environment.
Where? Gasholders, 1 Lewis Cubitt Square, London N1C 4BY
When? 10th- 21st April 2024. Wednesday to Friday, 12 pm – 8 pm. Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm.
