Grass/ Greeting/ Gathering: Ethical Papermaking and Suburban Community Engagement

Abstract

Grass/Greeting/Gathering: Ethical Papermaking and Suburban Community Engagement seeks to observe the flux and vulnerability of nature in suburban environments and to foster a sense of kinship and community through an ethical papermaking practice. This practice-based investigation crafts eco-friendly paper utilising locally foraged materials, specifically lawn clippings from neighbouring berms, emphasising the role of visual communication design in promoting environmental sustainability.

Ecologically intentional design thinking is central to this inquiry. The development of my practice was underpinned by daily cycles of walking, clipping, gathering, greeting, and papermaking. Interacting with the local natural environment not only enhances- es environmental awareness but also strengthens the internal relationships within the community. Furthermore, our exploration reveals how ecological design activities can establish a new form of community participation and social interaction, redefining and reshaping spaces on both physical and emotional levels and promoting a sense of community awareness and environmental stewardship.

Building upon the foundational insights garnered from the initial stages of the inquiry, this research culminates in advocating for an evolved design ethos inherently resistant to globalisation’s adverse environmental effects. It proposes a paradigm where localised, participatory, and materially engaged practices are not merely reactive but proactive measures in cultivating sustainable ecosystems and communities. This investigation underscores the transformative power of even the minutest interventions, which, when aggregated, can challenge and redefine prevailing global narratives. This study offers a blueprint for future ecological design practices by embracing grassroots approaches. It reaffirms the essential role of community engagement in fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection with our natural and social environments. Through this lens, we envision a future where design transcends its traditional boundaries, becoming a pivotal force in the global movement towards environmental stewardship and cultural renewal.