What is the primary focus of Earth Art or Earthworks?

The primary focus of Earth Art or Earthworks is indeed utilizing materials directly from nature. This art movement emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, emphasizing the relationship between the artwork and the natural environment. Artists commonly engage with the landscape itself, often using earth, rocks, plants, and other organic materials to create site-specific sculptures that interact with their surroundings. This practice challenges the traditional concepts of art being confined to galleries and instead incorporates the natural landscape as both medium and canvas, promoting an appreciation of the environment.

In contrast, using traditional materials in sculpture typically refers to mediums like bronze, marble, or clay, which doesn't align with the focus of Earth Art on natural materials. Combining technology with performance art suggests a different artistic direction altogether, focusing more on modern technology and ephemeral experiences than on nature itself. Finally, creating artworks in urban settings tends to prioritize the integration of art within cityscapes, which is not a defining feature of Earthworks as these often take place in rural or untouched natural environments. Therefore, the core aspect of Earth Art lies in its direct engagement with natural materials and landscapes.