Art Safety

Lead has been used for centuries and identified as a poison for almost as long. Modern artist pigments, solder, casting lead, ceramic glazes, glass paints, welding auto body parts or grinding older painted wood may all expose artists. Lead calls for stringent precautions – or plain avoidance. Continue reading “About lead…”

Cadmium is extremely toxic, even at trace levels, particularly when inhaled as a fume or dust. Less is absorbed when eaten, but the body tenaciously retains cadmium – small doses add up over the years. Continue reading “About cadmium…”

Knowledge is your best protection. Use your creativity to find safer substitutes for toxic materials whenever possible. Consult label warnings and follow directions carefully. Small traces over periods of time do add up. Continue reading “Take the time to take precautions…”

How safe is your art?

Artists work with almost every material under the sun, sometimes using traditional techniques, often experimenting in ways never before imagined. The dangers are real and can be deadly.

Ready to protect yourself and the environment? Check out these selected health and safety resources. We’ll add more, so visit again to learn the latest – and tell us what you think! Continue reading “Random thoughts on art, artists and educators”

Health-related labels on art materials sold in the U.S. must conform to certain standards, by law. Here’s an explanation of symbols and acronyms you’ll see on labels. Continue reading “Health and safety labels”