An exciting new exhibition has launched in Nottingham which celebrates creative upcycling.
‘Trash to Treasure’ is a series of innovative exhibitions featuring artwork and everyday objects which have all been created from waste. It is the brainchild of knowtrash – who have a unique collection of more than 4,000 contemporary upcycled artefacts from more than 30 countries.
Nottingham City Council, Arts Council England, knowtrash, City Arts, Playworks, Nottingham Trent University, Lace Market Gallery, intu Broadmarsh and Central College have come together to host the exhibitions across a series of city centre venues until the end of March.
Cllr Nicola Heaton, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at Nottingham City Council, said: “We are very excited to bring ‘Trash to Treasure’ to Nottingham. The exhibitions will offer a real insight into just what can be made from everyday household waste objects, which many of us throw into the bin all too easily.
“A series of workshops and talks focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling will also run alongside the exhibitions to provide practical guidance and advice on how to prevent household waste and keep items out of the waste stream.”
knowtrash are Neil Thomson, film editor and photographer, and Ruth Thomson, educational author. Speaking about the exhibitions they said: “We curate engaging bespoke exhibitions, celebrating creative recycling and the work of inventive and resourceful makers. Everything in the collection was once something else. Waste paper, metal, glass, plastic, textiles and rubber have been remade into sustainable, useful, and often beautiful, objects.
“Our passion is to share stories behind the art and craft of recycling and we are delighted to be able to bring our exhibition to Nottingham and inspire Nottingham people. It is fantastic to already see many people in Nottingham contributing to the exhibitions, with our exhibition featuring pieces made right here in Nottingham by artists, and students from several colleges.
Some highlights of the exhibitions include:
Recycle de Luxe – Intu Broadmarsh A sensational exhibition showcasing stunning pieces by extraordinary designers from around the world who have a unique take on recycling and upcycling. Also featuring fabulous works by talented students right here in Nottingham.
Hands Together – The Art of Social Enterprise at Nottingham Central Library, Angel Row An inspirational exhibition celebrating communities from around the world who provide a sustainable future for their families by turning trash into cash.
Radically Refashioned – Lace Market Gallery, Stoney Street An exuberant exhibition of upcycled funky fashion and awesome accessories, showcasing works made by New College Nottingham students alongside treasures from the international knowtrash collection.
Resourceful Recyclers – Playworks, Alfred Street North A photographic exhibition featuring resourceful makers worldwide who ingeniously upcycle scrap metal, waste paper, discarded tyres and bottles into practical or pretty products.
Mask Parade – City Arts, Hockley An enticing display of vibrant masks from around the globe. The exhibition will explore how masks are made and the exuberant celebrations where traditional masks are worn.
‘Hidden Beauties’ insect installation made from recycled materials by Central College BTEC Level 1 Art & Design Student at ‘The Wedge’ opposite the Tunnel Vision Digital Art Gallery at intu Broadmarsh.
Photography exhibition responding to recycling themes by Central College Level 3 Students in Extended Diploma in Photography in the Tunnel Vision Digital Art Gallery at intu Broadmarsh.
There are also many talks and workshops running alongside the exhibitions. For more information about Trash to Treasure and exhibition listings please visit www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/trashtotreasure or search #trash2treasure