One man’s trash is another man’s…art?
At Evolution Art, recycled art gives back in more ways than one.
When most people think of “art,” they probably picture a hushed museum gallery or a tortured genius toiling away in his studio. But recycled art is different. It makes art accessible so that anyone can understand, appreciate, and create it.
And no, this doesn’t mean that all recycled art looks like trash.
You might be wondering what recycled art actually is and the answer is “anything and everything.” Most artists take inspiration from their emotions, experiences, or the world around them. But those who make recycled art are also inspired by materials and an inner desire to give back to the world.
Reusing materials and finding a way to transform trash into something beautiful means a smaller carbon footprint as well as a smaller budget. Some artists are even inspired at what they can give back to communities with their work.
That’s the beauty of being an artist, the power to create and let your creativity shine through. Read on to learn how recycled art can change your space and the world.
How Is Recycled Art Made?
Recycled art is all about the phrase you likely learned in grade school: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” These three words describe the entire eco-friendly movement and I use them all here at Evolution Art.
Reduce
The first step of creating recycled art involves reducing the consumption of materials. This could be as simple as using paintbrushes until they fall apart or even not using brushes at all. (I prefer to paint with my fingers!)
As any artist can tell you, art typically requires a lot of supplies, so any steps you can take to reduce that is essential.
Reuse
This is the step that most people think of when they hear “recycled art.”
By incorporating materials that others would call “trash,” artists are able keep items out of landfills and turn them into something beautiful. Some artists who are choosing to recycle or reuse their materials may even repurpose old art supplies into their work.
I frequently use cardboard, bubble wrap, coat hangers, and plastic bottles in my art, as I love the texture and dimension they add to a piece.
Recycle
Reusing and repurposing materials into art is absolutely a form of recycling, but being able to use already-recycled materials helps to complete the (re)cycle.
For me, this culminated in me creating my own Eco Canvas out of recycled plastic, reused cardboard, and repurposed steel.
Recycling materials into art gives them a second life as an object of wonder and beauty. I wouldn’t consider doing it any other way.
Why Choose Recycled Art?
Artwork can be found at numerous art galleries, festivals, and stores around the world. No matter what your style is, you can easily find a piece that speaks to you.
But when you choose to beautify your space with recycled art, you’re voicing a hope that you want to bring into fruition.
Too much of this world is under the curse of destruction, disposal, and decomposition. My work is about creation and rebirth. For me, there is no better way to share this beauty and wonder than by taking “trash” and turning it into art.
Our landfills, parks, and even our oceans contain refuse from our lives. By recycling these items, I try to do my part to keep our planet as untouched as possible.
Art That Gives Back (In More Ways Than One)
Recycled art gives back to people and to the earth, but it’s important to me that I find other ways to give back.
Here at Evolution Art, half of the proceeds from each sale go towards Manu for Inclusion, a cause that is very close to my heart.
Manu for Inclusion addresses the lack of resources and support for neurodiverse children and families. These neurodiversities can range from autism to emotional instabilities and even addiction. This program helps children feel included so they feel supported and loved.
Conclusion
Art comes in a vast array of colors, shapes, sizes, and materials. With so much waste already happening in the world, when you can do better you should.
A simple Google search can show you the effects that non-sustainable materials have on the earth, how you can personally do better, and each step you can take to make sure your supplies don’t end up in a landfill.
Not an artist? No problem! There are so many ways to reduce your footprint on the Earth. Turn off the water while you’re brushing your teeth. Unplug appliances. Walk instead of drive. Do a 30-minute lake shore cleanup at your local watering hole.
All of these things combined plus supporting your local recycled artist can really make a huge impact on the future of the earth. Even if the only thing you can do is buy repurposed art, you just kept steel, plastic, and cardboard out of a landfill and contributed to an amazing cause.
Take a look around at the shop and think about all the good you can do when you decide to give back.