Although we wish everything was recyclable at the curbside, that’s just not the case. However, recycling doesn’t end with what can and can’t go into your Curb It! cart. In fact, recycling comes in many forms!
This summer, Metro Waste Authority has been demonstrating recycling in the form of public art; with many items destined for the trash finding new life. Metal discarded at Metro Park East Landfill and local salvage yards was transformed into a beautiful sculpture at our Central Office in East Village Des Moines. The functioning gate joins the No Action Too Small mural, painted on the side of the building with recycled paint.
We took this message on the road with a public art project at community events this summer. Over 15 “iSpy” display boards have been assembled using recycled cardboard, game pieces, playing cards, magazines, puzzle pieces, foil, and more.
The exhibit makes you think about where garbage goes once it leaves the curb and what recycling really means. It challenges the mind to think of other possibilities for items before they become garbage, such as art.
You don’t have to wait for us to heat up the glue gun. Put a collection box next to your garbage to save colorful or interesting looking items. The next time you need a rainy-day activity, grab some scissors, glue, and an old cardboard box to see what you can create!
For more information about Metro Waste Authority’s commitment to public art, visit our website at www.WhereItShouldGo.com/publicart.