How can art inform an audience about the damage caused by sheep dipping?

Wittebort, Autumn

How can art inform an audience about the damage caused by sheep dipping?

Persistent URL

https://dspace.allegheny.edu/handle/10456/56848

Author(s)

Wittebort, Autumn

Date Issued

March 24, 2023

Abstract

Industrialized farming has led to the development of damaging practices within the farming industry. This once-modest practice has turned into a billion-dollar operation that prioritizes profit over the welfare of living creatures and ecosystems. Sheep dipping is an industrial farming practice that involves physically dipping live sheep into a liquid solution to eliminate any harmful parasites from their wool. The sheep dip solution, however, is toxic for both the sheep and the environment that the dip is dumped into after use. It is my goal to inform my audience about sheep dipping and its harmful effects through environmental art. My artwork involves a drawing and a motorizing installation to replicate the sheep dipping process. As my drawing is dipped into water it slowly disintegrates over time to show the slow degradation of sheep lives and the quality of the environment. It is my hope that by raising awareness about this harmful practice, more sustainable alternatives and further research into sheep dipping will result.

As an artist, my work is a reflection of my concerns for the environment and the impact that human activities have on it. The work I create brings attention to problems that are frequently overlooked or underrepresented. My focus is predominantly on environmental concerns but I also touch upon a wide range of social topics, bringing attention to issues that often need to be addressed. For this project, I was particularly interested in highlighting the issue of sheep dipping, which is a common practice in the farming industry that has severe environmental consequences. My creative process begins by researching the topic, gathering data, and then applying technical precision with charcoal to produce a piece that communicates my message clearly. With careful consideration and attention to detail, I ensure that my artwork is not only visually and aesthetically appealing but also delivers a clear and powerful message. This piece aims to shed light on the damaging effects of sheep dipping on our wildlife and ecosystems. My work explores the toxic chemicals used in the dipping process and their impact on aquatic life, as well as the wider implications for the health of our planet. Although I ultimately want my piece to raise awareness, initiate conversations, and inspire positive change, it also serves as a medium for personal expression and reflection.

Major

Art: Studio Art

Environmental Science

Honors

Art, 2023

Environmental Science and Sustainability, 2023

First Reader(s)

Bethurem, Matt