http://www.awakenedradio.net/nurturing-your-creative-spirit.php

"How Creativity and Art Touches Our Lives"

The topic on The Eco Arts Council founder/director's

online radio show

"Nurturing Your Creative Spirit"

- host Glorie Iaccarino.

Learn about the Community Artist Approach. Understand perspectives from scientific, physiological,
and emotional perspectives on Creativity theories and receive some great ideas on creative activities and art-making projects you can do with the kiddos in your life and home community.

http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/audioPop.jsp?episodeId=784625&cmd=apop

Communities need Eco Arts

The Eco Arts Council believes that there is a need to build strong, healthy cities by promoting the integration of traditional arts, Eco-Arts and a creative class culture in community revitalization and that creative placemaking should be given more attention, study and implementation in and around the Quad City area.

The role of arts and culture provides a positive contribution in re-energizing... communities and assists in social and economic aspects of life. The arts and culture are an integral part of life and, when embedded in cross-sector revitalization activities, it can contribute to positive and enduring economic, social and cultural change in communities.

We would like to see the arts and culture as a central topic of discussion in rebuilding and reinvigorating metropolitan areas as land use, housing, transportation, and economic development. As more organizations commit to creating opportunity for low-income and underrepresented people, from arts and culture organizations to community development corporations and other public-sector and nonprofit agencies, we can encourage participation in civic life and in discourse about the future of neighborhoods and cities.

We would like to see more talent and authentic culture in our diverse QCA communities that reveal character, provide distinct identity, and ground revitalization work in the genuine fabric of each community and support "Creative Collaborative Networking" that embrace efforts that respect and tap those assets.

Strategic integration of arts and culture is relatively new as is the concept of “creative placemaking", but cross-discipline, multi-sector work can take root with both and as we build a consciousness in the value of deliverate integration of arts and culture inrevitalization work. As we learn more about and share what creative placemaking activity is and to understand its effect on economic, social and cultural change in disinvested communities we hope others will test new approaches, identify lessons from current exemplary activities and promote the adoption of creative placemaking activity.

Contact us at: Ecoartscouncilqc@aol.com if you are interested in the following....
The value of Arts and Culture
Direct grantmaking and support for research, evaluation and other endeavors that advance field-wide and cross-sector understanding
An arts and or culture organization interested in community revitalization initiatives
Engaged in cross-discipline, cross-sector activities
Exhibit strong leadership and a community vision
Demonstrate commitment to sustained engagement and participation of all residents
Interested in neighborhood revitalization and community art projects, public art, etc.
Honor community distinctiveness

Innovations in Green Technology for Residences

By Sam Marquit

With the global market for green building materials expected to more than double from $116 billion in 2013 to $254 billion in 2020, it is clear that eco-friendly building trends are spreading. As a commercial contractor, I see how businesses use these materials, as well as how these materials have evolved over the years. Homes are catching up to businesses in this regard, which is only further feeding the boom.

An example of how a business can implement widespread eco-friendly materials and practices is the Palazzo hotel in Las Vegas. Nearly half of the building opens to the warm weather outside. Drip irrigation systems keep the hotel from over-watering. Turf grass keeps outdoor areas looking green without using water. All of this adds up to eight million gallons of water conserved annually. Due to its green practices, the hotel was recently named the “Most Eco Friendly hotel in America”.

Few homes can add up to the Palazzo, but it is possible to implement drip irrigation systems in residential areas. Homeowners can also use gray water to keep gardens watered. A big benefit of this type of water conservation is the money saved.

The scale and method of implementing green standards varies hugely across types of structures. However, products used in homes can also be used in business. In Cornell, Wisconsin, the Cornell Corporation is making and selling nail base roofing panels, as well as a product called ThermaCal Wall, which is a nail base panel for walls. You can use this product when you renovate or when building a new home.

When it comes to roofing, Powerhouse Solar Shingles, which can be used for small businesses and homes, are both the shingles for your roof and solar panels. While amazing, with an output of 12%, at least 6% less than most crystalline PV modules, these shingles are not as efficient. In order for Powerhouse Solar Shingles to be as effective as similar products mounted on aluminum, they need a larger area. Nonetheless, this green material has serious promise.

With innovations like these, homes can go a long way to reduce the carbon footprints of the people living within. Much like the Las Vegas hotels, you can have lush gardens, renewable energy and low water bills when you research new technologies and implement those that are most appropriate for your home, location and lifestyle.

Traits of Creative People

Audio Recording: 'Nurturing Your Creative Spirit Glorie Iaccarino' From 'Awakened Radio'

'Nurturing Your Creative Spirit Business Ideas'

Audio Recording: 'Nurturing Your Creative Spirit Business Ideas' From 'Awakened Radio'

Audio Recording: 'Nurturing Your Creative Spirit Creativity & Children' From 'Awakened Radio'

Audio Recording: 'Nurturing Your Creative Spirit Creativity & Children' From 'Awakened Radio'

Picnic at Schwiebert Riverfront Park

Public Picnic

Join the Eco Arts Council volunteer members for a picnic at Schwiebert Riverfront Park along the banks of the Mississippi on April 21, 2012 from noon to 1:00 pm. This picnic is in celebration of Earth Day, April 22. Bring your own brown bag lunch and enjoy the fellowship of other Nature loving families and community members. This will be an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the upcoming Family Nature Club which will be facilitated through the Eco Arts Council. Earth Day Eco Art project ideas will be provided and information on how to be involved with Eco-friendly events through the EACQC. Bring an umbrella in case of rain, a smile to share, and an enthusiasm to spread the word of Earth Day and it’s role in our community!

Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Central Time
Address:
On the riverfront between 17th and 20th Streets
Rock Island Illinois, 61201
United States
Contact: Eco Arts Council
Email: Ecoartscouncilqc@aol.com

The Eco Arts Council is proud to be a part of a positive initiative with QC United! Click on the link to learn more.
Organizations partner against bullying

The Eco Arts Council and Zola Gallery Presents

Let's G.O. Eco!

Rock Island, Illinois– The Eco Arts Council and Zola Gallery will present Let's G.O. Eco!, taking place at Zola Gallery, at Shoppes on the 2nd in the District of Rock Island on April 27, 2013 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm, and featuring an Eco Art Project, Seed Planting and Recycling Drive.

EACQC and the Midwest's premier ecological art gallery, "Zola Gallery", are proud to bring Let's G.O. Eco! to Rock Island for the first time and in support of the Children and Nature Network's National Let's G.O. (Get Outside) Campaign. Let's G.O. Eco! will encourage families and community members to get outside and learn more about Nature and it's healthy benefits while promoting Eco-friendly practices, good stewardship, recycling and creative Eco Art projects.

The event will offer children and their families an opportunity to decorate a recyclable can and or glass jar in which to plant seeds that will be provided. It will also serve as a recycling collection site for metal and plastic bottle caps, clean used fabrics and other recyclable items usable for art projects. Free used law books that were collected in a previous waste diversion project will be given away with ideas and instructions on book projects including reusing the books to make plant holders, utilizing pages to make paper jewelry beads, and much more. A $5.00 donation is suggested but is offered free to those that contribute recyclable items for the drive.  Zola Gallery is located at 1700 2nd Avenue, Suite 2, Rock Island, Illinois and will have indoor/outdoor stations for the event.

According to EACQC Founder, Glorie Iaccarino, “The mission and importance of EcoArts can be adapted anywhere as Nature and our relationship to it is universal. Art is the gateway in which to express, appreciate, and use in advocacy to educate, inspire and enhance community. Eco Arts is supportive of the Nature Movement and can assist in sharing the benefits of Nature and provide tools to address and avoid Nature Deficit Disorder.”

The Eco Arts Council mission is to build awareness and knowledge about the fields of Environmental Arts, Ecology, Natural Living, and how engagement can intersect with community building, environmental activism and tourism. For more information on how to get involved and a material list of applicable recyclable items for recycling drive, Contact: Ecoartscouncilqc@aol.com and keep connected with future events online at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eco-Arts-Council/436703783079522

For information on how to host your own Let's G.O. event, the Eco Arts Council encourages people to learn more at: http://www.childrenandnature.org/movement/letsgo/ and invites others to partner with the EACQC for future events.

Quintessential "R"-Reuse, Renew, Revamp, Recycle, Refurbish and RECONNECT with Nature!

"March into Spring with an exhibit that embodies the artistry, functionality and economical aspects of celebrating the Nature Movement and it's inspiration on interior design. Zola Gallery's Quintessential 'R" exhibit is to share their 'arterior motives' in inspiring home and office decorating that has ecological conscientiousness at the forefront of design. By utilizing GREEN principles such as Reuse, Renew, Revamp, Recycle and Refurbish aspects in the creation and presentation of art and product, Zola hopes to educate about environmental awareness, and celebrate Nature." - Glorie Iaccarino

Eco Artworks, Nature Prints, DIY's examples, and Vintage/Antique, and Juxtaposed Creations.

quin·tes·sen·tial
[kwin-tuh-sen-shuhl]
adjective
1. of the pure and essential essence of something: the quintessential Eco Art delicatessen and buffet of examples.
2.of or pertaining to the most perfect embodiment of something: the quintessential exhibition of upcycling Vintage and Antiques works into modern Eco interior design.

ECO ART EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITY

Zola is holding a call for entries for rolling monthly exhibitions. Eco-artists can submit to Zola using the information below. (What is Eco Art?)

Artists who are interested in exhibiting in the Gallery or Shoppes on the 2^nd Main Hall should submit the following via snail mail or deliver in-hand to the Programs and Communications Department (email submissions will not be considered). Please make sure your full name appears on the outside of the packet you submit:

• 12 digital images of recent, 2-dimensional, original work on a CD in 1200 pixels minimum dimension (4″ at 300 dpi), jpg format
• A numbered list noting the medium, size (indicate inches or feet) and year produced of each piece; give titles where possible. (Please provide a hard, paper copy, do not put the document on the disc with the images.)
• A one-page art related resume, 12-point font minimum with artist name and contact information including an email address and phone number. Indicate if you have shown here before and if so specify the date. (Please provide a hard, paper copy, do not put the document on the disc with the images.)
• In 50 words or less, a document giving a brief description of your work. (Please provide a hard, paper copy, do not put the document on the disc with the images.) In addition to the 50-word description, any limitations on your ability to show in a given month (due travel plans or other extraordinary circumstances) should be specified here. If you are accepted the gallery will determine when your show will take place and in which space. The assignments are fixed and cannot be changed. You may not request a specific month or gallery space.
• A self-addressed, stamped, letter sized envelope so that we may notify you of the committee’s selections. Include a return address on the envelope.

Submissions may be mailed or dropped off in person to:

Zola

Attn: Gallery Exhibition Submission

1700 2nd Ave Suite 2

Rock Island, IL 61201

The Eco Arts Council endorses the Midwest's Ecological Gallery: ZOLA GALLERY

Zola is inviting individuals to submit photograph(s) of the Mississippi River in three categories: 1) The Natural Beauty of the River 2) Life on the River and /or 3) Challenges of the River.

Submissions can be dropped off at Zola, located at 1700 2nd Avenue, Suite 2, in Rock Island Illinois.

Guidelines are as follows:

1. Submission Deadline is February 15th, 2013.

2. Submissions can include up to one photo within each category.

3. Photos should be submitted in 24×26 inch size mounted on foam board

4. Photos can be submitted as three on one 24×36 or separate 24×35 sized photos

5. There is no age limit to participate

6. Photos need represent the Quad City and surrounding cities Mississippi River areas

7. Photos can be taken new for this submission or from an existing archive

9. All photos should have a caption placed on the bottom right corner stating the photographer’s name and the location of the shot. The caption should be a white field with black letters in Rimes New Roman font.

10. Zola, as well as QCEAC reserves the right to select all photos that will be used for future events, exhibitions, and educational and advertising matters- with full credit being given to the artist.

Interested in the Nature Movement and Eco Arts?

Eco Arts Council Quad Cities:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EcoArtsCouncilQC

Blog: http://ecoartscouncilquadcities.blogspot.com/

Artist's article: http://qctimes.com/news/opinion/editorial/columnists/david-burke/this-artist-is-thinking-environmentally/article_0ca2c884-a6a7-11e1-b78f-0019bb2963f4.html

EACQC Article: http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=599721

EACQC First Eco Art Salon Article: http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=612077&query=Glorie%20iaccarino

EACQC Papergirl Project – Quad Cities:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/PaperGirl-Quad-Cities/416254008420210

http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=601067&query=Papergirl

http://www.figgeartmuseum.org/Figge-Art-Museum-%281%29/July-2012/Figge-to-Host-Papergirl-Quad-Cities-Exhibition.aspx

EACQC Papergirl Project article: http://www.rcreader.com/news-releases/figge-to-host-qpapergirl-quad-citiesq-exhibit/

Project Link (Edible School yard): http://edibleschoolyard.org/program/eco-arts-council-quad-cities

Join online group at: http://www.facebook.com/groups/398929910137713/

Quad Cities Nature Network: https://www.facebook.com/groups/487913601266942/

Children and Nature Network: http://childrenandnature.ning.com/profile/GlorieIaccarino

EACQC in American Towns: http://www.americantowns.com/il/eastmoline/organization/eco-arts-council-of-the-quad-cities

National Public Lands Day Proclamation in East Moline, IL. http://www.eastmoline.com/Agenda/Council/2012/091712.pdf

ZOLA GALLERY

Whichever side one falls on the global warming debate—looming crisis or self-serving political hyperbole—many would agree that ecologically madre terra (mother earth) has taken a beating over the passing decades.
With the opening of Zola, the Midwest’s first Eco-Arts gallery, artists/partners/proprietors Glorie Iaccarino and Meghan Hollister hope to take a creative hands-on approach to addressing the issue.

“Zola Gallery is an ecological gallery, “explained Ms. Iaccarino during a recent television interview. “All we feature are ecological artworks—art that’s nature-related, celebrates its inhabitants, and practices reuse, reduce, recycle and revamp principles.

“It’s an effort to be a good steward. People are reconnecting with nature as there are a lot of health benefits, psychologically and physically.”

Added Ms. Hollister, “It gives you a sense of conscious purpose in your art-making and your creative message a little more weight.”

In addition to displaying their own work, the co-owners hope to offer gallery space to other like-minded individuals, encouraging discussion and exchange of ideas. Art instruction is also available to the general public.
Zola Gallery is located at 1700 2nd Avenue, Suite 2, Rock Island, Illinois. Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm, Tuesday – Friday; 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Saturday.

Glorie Iaccarino has been an artist, writer, educator and environmental arts advocate in the Quad Cities for over twenty years. She’s the founder of the Director Quad Cities Eco Arts Council and the area coordinator of the internationally recognized Papergirl Project.

Meghan Hollister is a graduate of St. Ambrose University and a former art instructor for the Figge Museum in Davenport, Iowa. She organized the first Quad Cities Eco-Arts Salon and is Lead Facilitator of the Quad Cities Eco Arts Council.

http://www.facebook.com/ZolaGallery
Zola Gallery is on Facebook!
Come check it out and "Like".
Receive updates on Ecological News, Eco Arts Exhibits, Workshops and Classes, and much more!

Check out the article on Zola Gallery!

 Eco Art will have a home in the Midwest's premier Ecological Gallery.

http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=625971

The Eco Arts Council
“We advocate for the adaptation of Environmental Education!”

Why incorporate Environmental themes?
Integration of EE is beneficial because CHILDREN HAVE A NATURAL INTEREST IN THE ENVIRONMENT AROUND THEM.

Interested students are motivated students and motivation is a key ingredient for academic achievement!
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION emphasizes cooperative learning, critical thinking and discussion.

With hands-on activities, and a focus on action strategies, with real-world applications, students are stimulated and can learn leadership skills in advocacy related projects!

Students who study ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION, learn:

How to work on teams
Solve real-world problems
Connect with the community
Promoting actions that serve the larger good
Make a difference in the world
Listen to and accept diverse opinions
Take the long-term view

Environmental-based education employs key strategies for teaching creative and successful problem solving:

Introducing inquiry-based instructional activities with real-world applications
Encouraging critical thinking about these activities
Allowing individual choice about and engagement in the particular problem to be solved
Helping students make connections between disciplines and
Fostering independent and cooperative group learning

Fact: When students learn through a problem or project-based approach – a key strategy in environmental-based education – they gain a better understanding of what they learn, they retain it longer, and they take charge of their own learning – key skills for success in our data-driven rapidly changing world.

Fact: Schools that have EE demonstrate better academic performance across the curriculum

Schools that adopt environmental education as the central focus of their academic programs frequently demonstrate the following results:

Reading, science, social studies, and mathematics scores improve
Students develop the ability to transfer their knowledge from familiar to unfamiliar contests
Students “learn to do science’ rather than “just learn about science”
Classroom discipline problems decline
All students have the opportunity to learn at a higher level