Artist and sculptor Shari Mendelson takes the humble plastic bottle and turns it into imaginatively ornate vases. Aside from the occasional recognizable logo or shape found in such bottles as the POM one, a viewer wouldn't be able to guess the materials' original state. Stunningly manipulated, the bottles have been deconstructed, constricted, expanded and more to become works of art rather than practical drinking vessels.
Based in New York City, Shari Mendelson was inspired by "historical ceramic, glass and metal artifacts" when creating her latest works of art, according to her website. Discarding the juice, soda and water in the bottles she collects, Shari Mendelson cuts them into pieces and reassembles them, transforming the plastic trash into pieces that comment on issues of waste, history, culture and the relative value of objects.
What's Driving This Trend
- Upcycling Plastic Waste
- Artists are transforming plastic waste into works of art that comment on issues of waste, history, culture, and the relative value of objects.
- Sustainable Art
- Artists are incorporating eco-friendly materials and waste reduction practices to create sustainable art.
- Disruptive Art Forms
- New, unconventional art forms are emerging as artists experiment with unconventional materials and techniques.
Who This Affects Most
- Art and Design
- The art and design industry can incorporate sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials to produce art that incorporates environmental commentary.
- Waste Management
- Innovative waste management solutions can be developed to reduce plastic waste and repurpose it for artistic use.
- Environmental Science and Advocacy
- Environmental scientists and advocates can collaborate with artists to raise awareness and promote action on environmental issues using creative approaches.
