Embracing the Green Path

Amber Holt, Class of 2026

Artist Statement

Embracing the Green Path represents the walk to the School of Business at Robert Morris University, a cherished scene on campus that holds more meaning than meets the eye.

Have you ever paused and asked yourself, “What makes campus so beautiful?”. For me, the answer is simple: the trees. The way the light filters through the branches, the shade the leaves provide on a hot afternoon. I mean, what more could you ask for?

When I walk this path, I can’t help but wonder what once occupied the space where the buildings now stand. At one time, these grounds were likely covered by trees like the ones that follow this walkway. These trees are not only beautiful; they're living remnants of the original landscape, quietly witnessing the university’s growth.

Through my thesis research, I’ve explored how emphasizing nature’s beauty in artistic contexts can be a powerful way to spark conversations around sustainability and environmental awareness. This painting doesn’t demand a specific stance—it invites reflection, all without being too overbearing.

This piece is a quiet reminder to slow down, to look around, and to appreciate and cherish the nature around us. Before we can begin to prevent environmental degradation, we must first learn to love and respect the Earth. And for me, that love begins with Embracing the Green Path.