Threads of Thought: Sienna Martz on Material and Meaning

In sculptural works that blur the line between material and message, Sienna Martz transforms plant fibers and salvaged textiles into tactile reflections on nature’s resilience. Her fiber-based practice is rooted in ecological ethics, drawing from veganism, environmental activism, and a deep reverence for organic form. The result: intricate, meditative pieces that speak to both the fragility and strength of the natural world.

Gallery Les Bois discovered Martz through her growing international presence and her alignment with the gallery’s mission to champion sustainability in contemporary art. Her work stands as a model for how environmental responsibility can be woven seamlessly into conceptual and aesthetic rigor.

In this conversation, Martz reflects on the philosophy behind her practice, the challenges of sustainable creation, and the role of artists in reshaping our relationship to the planet.

1. Your work is known for its innovative use of sustainable materials, such as plant fibers and recycled materials. What first drew you to these mediums, and how do they shape your artistic vision and connection to nature?

I was born and raised as a vegetarian, and in my mid-twenties, I transitioned to ethical veganism. This shift deepened my engagement with sustainability and climate action, particularly in relation to animal agriculture, which is one of the leading causes of climate change. Embracing veganism not only influenced my diet and the beauty products I use but also shaped the companies I support and the materials I select as a fiber artist. I strive to ensure that my art practice positively impacts both animals and our planet.

During my early days as an artist, I found myself at a pivotal crossroads: I was pursuing my artistic career while working in retail, an industry known for its significant environmental impact. To align my day job with my ethical values, I began working for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) as a fashion campaign coordinator, advocating against animal-derived textiles. My experience at PETA was eye-opening, as I learned about the harmful environmental effects inherent in various textiles, including wool, leather, mohair, and synthetics.

Now, as a full-time artist, I remain passionate about ensuring that my art practice has a minimal impact on our beautiful planet. I also focus on advocating for sustainability and helping to educate and inspire other creatives around the world. My art serves as a gentle form of climate and animal rights activism, capturing the unique beauty of the natural world around us.

2. Your works stand at the intersection of high art and eco-consciousness, blending aesthetics with environmental responsibility. What challenges arise when attempting to create pieces that are both materially sustainable and conceptually rigorous? How do you push beyond mere symbolism to find visual sophistication in ecological art?

Navigating art-making through the lens of sustainability presents inevitable challenges due to the imperfections of our societal systems. There are many materials I would love to explore that could enhance my artistic visions, but unfortunately, these materials are environmentally harmful, and sustainable alternatives have not yet been fully developed. This limitation can be very frustrating and often requires hours of research to find eco-friendly substitutes. However, I willingly accept this challenge, recognizing the environmental benefits of avoiding harmful materials. With this in mind, I approach my practice with flexibility, ready to adapt my concepts and techniques to the available eco-friendly materials. Often this leads to me working with unusual fibers like secondhand clothing that can guide the outcome of the artwork.

3. Much of your work is an homage to the adaptability of nature. How do you view nature as both an aesthetic and philosophical partner in your process? Is there a sense of dialogue between you and the organic materials you work with, or is your relationship with them more meditative and personal?

My homage to nature's adaptability is closely tied to my fascination with irregular movement, inconsistent edges, and repetitive shapes that often influence my work. I am deeply captivated by recreating organic forms found in nature and adapting them through my own whimsical and vibrant lens, which often leads to the creation of "new species," so to speak. I frequently utilize traditional textile techniques in contemporary ways, allowing the materials I use to partially guide the shape of the artwork. The dialogue between myself and the materials is unique to each piece; however, one constant remains: the meditative experience resulting from the repetitive nature of my processes.

4. The conversation around sustainability in art is increasingly important, but it is not without its complexities. From your perspective, how has the market responded to the demand for eco-conscious art, and do you believe collectors and institutions are shifting in the right direction—or is there more work to be done?

In the past decade, I have observed significant progress in sustainability within the practices of artists, institutions, collectors, and funding opportunities. However, I believe there is still much more work to be done to achieve true systematic change. This requires us to break the patterns of consumption and material use that have long been associated with various art mediums. While change can be challenging due to the emotional, psychological, and social factors that make people cling to familiar ways, we have a unique opportunity for growth that allows us to help create a future we can all be proud of.

We now have substantial evidence identifying which materials are most sustainable and ethical, as well as those that are harmful. This growing understanding empowers us to recognize what needs to change, yet it also brings a sense of devastation as we confront the complexities of our collective impact and the destructive choices of previous generations. The journey toward greater accountability and respect for our planet and all its inhabitants will not only enrich artistic expression but also serve as a powerful catalyst for change in societal values.