Gif displaying hand-drawn native plants of New York tilting on a a seed-infused paper background, in the center is the Plant Local Logo.

Plant Local

Non-native species, like grass, are prevalent in the majority of yards throughout the U.S. These non-native plants require extensive upkeep to survive in conditions that they are not genetically adapted to, meaning more money, water, and time are spent on plants not suited to our climate. By shifting our focus to planting native species, we can begin to circumvent many sustainability issues of the average garden.

My thesis project, Plant Local, merges my love of digital, print, and traditional art to raise awareness of native plants and their ecological benefits. Collaborating with my good friend, Rika Laser (MFA Printmaking), we created wildflower-seed infused paper that is biodegradable and serves as a medium for public engagement. The seed infused paper also serves as a physical asset that compliments the Plant Local awareness campaign.

Hand-made paper mockup showing hand-drawn native plants of New York with the specie name listed vertically next to each plant.Person holding a set of vertically oriented post cards that display hand-drawn native plants of New York with the specie name listed vertically next to each plant.Black and white photo collage depicting the process of making the seed-infused paper, in the center is the Plant Local Logo.A mockup grid of six postage stamps featuring hand-drawn native plants of New York with the specie name listed vertically next to each plant.