September 20, 2018
Response to PETA on Badger and Natural Hair Brushes
PETA has released a disturbing video on the treatment of badgers in China related to the brush-making industry. While Blick has no evidence that suggests animals used by our vendors in the manufacturing of their products were treated unethically, we take this situation seriously and want to support customers who are concerned about this problem. To that end, our response includes all animal hair brushes (e.g., Hog, Squirrel, Sable, and Kolinsky Sable). Please read more below.
1. Significant advancements have been made in recent years in developing synthetic filaments that perform as well or better than natural brush hair. While early-generation synthetics may have lacked the ability to hold and consistently lay down paint, many of the newer alternatives closely match the characteristics and working properties desired by artists.
2. Product education has always been a top priority at Blick, and we make a conscious effort to educate our customers about today’s better-performing synthetic alternatives to natural brush hair. We will also continue to pursue synthetic brush alternatives, including suitable alternatives to badger hair.
3. We believe customers who prefer natural hair brushes but are concerned about the ethical treatment of animals may move to high-performing synthetic alternatives once they try them. We also believe that the customer adoption of less environmentally harmful products will continue to evolve over time.
4. Blick’s primary mission is to supply artists with the widest selection of products available to support and nurture their creative pursuits. Part of our mission is to educate consumers while developing safer products, such as our Utrecht Cadmium-Free Oil Colors.
We are committed to working with our vendors to ensure that all components of the products we sell are ethically sourced and believe we can influence them to be vigilant in their oversight to help end these irresponsible practices.
Blick will cease buying product from any vendor that cannot confirm that their badgers are not inhumanely or illegally killed.
Sincerely,
Bob Buchsbaum
Chief Executive Officer
Please find responses from our vendors regarding this issue below: