The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
Robert Swan
LONDON – Transforming discarded materials into extraordinary artworks to raise awareness about the environment and wildlife: this is the mission of Josh Gluckstein, a British artist who creates animal sculptures using cardboard and recycled materials.
Fascinated by the planet’s biodiversity, Gluckstein has traveled across Asia, Latin America, and East Africa, witnessing firsthand the devastating presence of plastic waste even in the most remote locations. This inspired him to create sustainable art with minimal environmental impact. His sculptures—depicting elephants, primates, pangolins, and big cats—come to life through torn, cut, and painted cardboard, skillfully crafted to achieve strikingly realistic expressions. During lockdown, the artist discovered the versatility of cardboard, marking the beginning of a new creative phase.
With his “Gold” series, Gluckstein highlights the issue of poaching by applying gold leaf to his sculptures, symbolizing the reasons these animals are hunted. A powerful example is the pangolin, critically endangered due to illegal trade for its meat and unique scales. His works will be exhibited at the Woolff Gallery in London, with a portion of the proceeds donated to WWF. More than just art, Gluckstein’s creations serve as a compelling call to action for conservation and environmental responsibility.
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