Trash is Treasure

Some artists have stories behind their artwork, but others are created from a clear mind, something that is created merely because the artist believes that it is beautiful. Professor George Szekely, Area Head and Senior Professor of Art Education at the University of Kentucky, has a strong belief in creating art from objects that he simply loves. In his article "Trashcan Artists", Szekely tells us about his art studio where he encourages kids to come and create their own art, by only using materials from trashcans. Szekely finds it interesting and inspiring to see how kids create their art from finding value in the trash they use. He states that; “The recycle bin or trashcan suggests to children treasure hunting, conservation and the sense of being able to discover and make things for themselves” (31). From this statement you can tell that children do not see trash as something disgusting, but rather something fun that they can use to make their own toys, statues, or even a completely functioning umbrella. This idea of using trash as materiel for art is something very beneficial to our environment, it is not only excellent recycling but also a fabulous opportunity to create something that people will find beautiful, entertaining or even useful. Szekely says that;

“I am convinced (and we have put it through limited art- room testing) that, if for some reason our economy collapsed, and we needed to look to alternative sources for clothing and shelter, children could take care of their needs by redesigning items from the class trashcan”(31).

In our society, where consumption has become the norm, this idea of making sustainable art can be a step in the right direction towards improving the environment and making our planet a better place. Why spend money on new supplies when we have the opportunity to just re-use the things that are available to us? 

/ Melinda & Blair

Works Cited:

Szekely, George. "Trashcan Artists." Arts and Activities. Feb 2005: 31-44. Print.