Ep # 85: The Art of Environmental Empathy: Conversation with Christine Forni

Summary of the episode

Join me for a deep dive into the world of multidisciplinary artist Christine Forni, whose work beautifully weaves together themes of nature, science, and environmental empathy. In this conversation, we explore how Christine's childhood in the industrial landscapes of Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Detroit created the foundation for her unique artistic practice that examines the tension between urban environments and natural spaces. We dive into her transformative time in Paris, her dual residencies researching botanical collections and colonial bone specimens, and her newest venture, Green Garnet Press—an artist-run project fostering community engagement through art. This episode is all about the intricate relationship between art, nature, and social responsibility, and how artists can contribute positively to their surroundings while encouraging others to explore their own creativity outdoors.

What we talk about

Christine's childhood next to a forest preserve in industrial Detroit and how it shapes her art today
Her bold move to Paris in 2015 and the dual residencies that changed her perspective
The fascinating intersection of art and science in her practice
Green Garnet Press and building community through artist-run projects
Environmental empathy and the artist's role in social consciousness
How personal experiences and place deeply impact creative processes
The importance of accountability and support in artistic practice
Learning and growing in creative spaces (plus my own live radio learning journey!)

Chapters:

00:32 - Introduction to noseyAF Live
06:57 - Introducing Christine Forni: A Journey of Art and Life
19:10 - Engaging with Nature Through Art
25:41 - Artistic Residencies and Nature's Influence
34:33 - The Spiritual Connection to Nature
37:37 - The Artistic Journey of Christine Forni
48:30 - Generosity in Artistic Practice
54:50 - Shifting Practices: The Impact of Color and Community on Art
01:00:01 - Exploring the Concept of Art Residencies

Things We Mentioned

Green Garnet Press - Christine's artist-run community project
École du Breuil d'Horticulture - Paris botanical residency
Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle - Paris natural history museum residency
Lumpen Radio - 105.5FM Chicago community radio station
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art - Chicago exhibition venue
DeCordova Sculpture Museum - Boston exhibition venue
Ueno Royal Japanese Art Museum - Tokyo exhibition venue
Morgan Freeman Through the Wormhole
Time and Beauty by Adrian Bejan: Book Christine was mentioned in (affiliate link)

All about Christine Forni

You're gonna love Christine—she's a multidisciplinary nature-science genius and community building superhero who creates art that makes you think differently about the world around you.

Sponsor Shoutout 💖

This episode is brought to you by the amazing community at Lumpen Radi

They're doing cool stuff like supporting independent voices and community-driven programming. Check them out at lumpenradio.com or tune in locally at 105.5FM!