Biophilic Art & Design
Moss Beach Landing, California ©Diane Epstein
Biophilia
[ bī-ō-ˈfēl-yə\]
“love of life and all living beings”; “humanity’s innate tendency to focus on life and lifelike processes,‘’ and to be drawn toward nature, to feel an affinity for it, a love, a craving.”
Coined by Erich Fromm in The Heart of Man: Its Genius for Good and Evil (1964) Extended by Edward O. Wilson in Biophilia (1984) and Natalie Angier (2002)
“Curating a sensory-rich spirit of place, honoring our human-nature bond and the innate, visceral, natural affinity and yearning for love and aliveness - expressed and cultivated through the shape and soul of our story and the patina of time”
Expanded definition by Diane Epstein (2022)
“My aim in creating biophilic art and design, with fresco photography and mixed-media art, is to celebrate the vitality and healing qualities of the natural world, with its sensory richness, textural complexity, verdant foliage, and colorful wildlife. I have also been paying homage to the architectural and cultural genius and depth of humanity since I began this journey during my two decades in Italy, living and working as an artist.
My latest art evolution involves the desire to infuse nature and the spirit of place into the workspace and healthcare environments to divide, enhance, and adorn the space and support optimal connection, healing and creativity. To bring the outdoors inside, and make the interior space come to life.”
- Diane Epstein
THE PRACTICE OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
By Stephen Kellert and Elizabeth Calabrese
EXPERIENCE OF SPACE AND PLACE:
* Prospect and refuge
* Transitional spaces (ie. thresholds, colonnades, courtyards)
* Mobility and Way-finding
* Cultural and ecological attachment to place
* Organized complexity
* Integration of parts to whole
INDIRECT EXPERIENCES OF NATURE:
Natural geometries and patterns
Naturalistic shapes and forms
* Images of nature
* Simulating natural light and air
* Age, change and the patina of time.
Dr. Stephen Kellert, 1943-2016, Professor, Yale University, Best Book of the Year Award in Architecture and Planning for Biophilic Design; focuses on understanding the connection between nature, sustainable design and development.
“There is great aliveness in Diane Epstein’s Fresco Photography/ Biophilic Art with her innate ability to capture the spirit and soul of nature. The layering of colors and images are dynamic, offering the feeling of shifting rays of sunlight, swaying treetops and fluttering fauna. Diane leaves the space to imagine, to expand and to understand our interconnectedness to a world much greater than ourselves. We evolved as a species in a biocentric environment and mounting research supports that incorporating nature into our lives, directly and indirectly, can promote healing, wellbeing and reduce stress. ”
PORTFOLIO - Biophilic Art by Diane Epstein
“After returning to California from two decades in Italy, I am witnessing the cultural impact of Americans spending their lives indoors, feeling unsafe, disconnected and yearning for a healthier life. Through my Biophilic Art I can do my part in bridging the gap from isolation to connection and a deeper appreciation of all living things. In this new reality where people are craving real connection, creating environments that bring people together matter more than ever.
I am experimenting with new printing and installation techniques that transform entire spaces by utilizing space solutions that are not only functional, but also evoke curiosity and provide a sense of refuge. I am interested in projects and collaborations related to Biophilic Design and WELL / LEED Architecture that have a greater impact for those who work, live or visit the building where the art and design are integrated into the space, based on collaboration, functional needs, and the development of return-to-work incentives.”
““Diane’s art and presence are both enchanting, deep and timeless, with a connection to both ancient wisdom and present illumination. Her artful genius is an invitation to a realm of peace and possibilities, both grounding and expansive. Diane’s process of creating large-scale fresco murals and other biophilic art, includes practical guidance and wisely facilitated conversations, so you can create an intentional space that uplifts innovation, connection and community. This helps clarify creative and business visions, so her art truly is inclusive, and has the end-user in mind.”