The Metrobench by Stephen Shaheen is both an art sculpture and unique furniture piece that was well worth the time and patience it took to create.
Using 5000 recycled New York City MTA Metrocards, these traveling tokens were used as the platform to the upcycled bench. With help from the popular craigslist website, designer Stephen Shaheen was able to accumulate all 5000 cards from strangers in just under one week. The sculpture was patiently assembled completely by hand, resulting in a stunning furniture piece.
Stephen Shaheen is an artist and designer from New York who has extensive experience in the creative industry. He has won many awards for his talents and teaches at the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts and the New York Academy of Art.
Traveling Transit Furniture
The Metrobench by Stephen Shaheen is a Speedy Design
Trend Themes
1. Upcycling - The upcycled bench made from recycled Metrocards highlights the trend of repurposing materials to create unique furniture pieces.
2. Sustainable Design - The use of 5000 recycled Metrocards in the creation of the bench showcases the trend of incorporating sustainable practices in design.
3. Collaborative Consumption - The designer's use of popular Craigslist website to accumulate all 5000 Metrocards reflects the trend of people coming together to share resources for creative projects.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Manufacturing - The furniture industry could explore incorporating upcycled materials like Metrocards into their designs to create sustainable and unique pieces.
2. Art and Sculpture - The art and sculpture industry can embrace the trend of using recycled materials like Metrocards to create visually striking and environmentally friendly artworks.
3. Eco-friendly Fashion - The fashion industry can draw inspiration from the upcycled Metrocards bench to create innovative and eco-friendly accessories or clothing pieces.