Sustainable art should not be installed at natural sites

Abstract

The author criticizes the increasing trend of installing artworks in natural environments, questioning the ecological and cultural implications of such practices. While recognizing the contributions of historical land art and environmental art to raising awareness of humanity’s relationship with nature, this paper argues that many contemporary interventions, driven by commercial or entertainment purposes, undermine ecological integrity and perpetuate harmful cultural attitudes toward nature. The purpose is to illuminate how the placement of artworks in natural contexts—whether labeled “environmental” or otherwise—contributes to a cultural phenomenon of commodifying nature as an amusement park or a scenic backdrop, thereby undermining genuine ecological engagement. To address this, the author calls for stricter legislative frameworks, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainable artistic practices that prioritize non-intrusiveness and ecological restoration.