The Smart Art Competition challenges artists and designers to use recycled items to create something wonderful. This year’s competition saw a particular interest in home design.
There were U-turn sign chairs, luggage chairs, trash rugs, and pop label rugs. All were great examples of re-imagining a piece of trash.
Implications - Though upcycled design is almost everywhere in today's design industry, unabashed upcycling is fairly new. This development calls companies to not only create with recycled materials, but to do so with pride. Instead of looking to hide the fact that a product is made with found materials, consumers are wearing their eco-conscious pieces with pride, finding charm in products that look a little rustic.
Trashy Home Decor
Smart Art Competition 2009 Makes Homey Waste Wonders
Trend Themes
1. Unabashed Upcycling - Consumers are embracing products made with found materials and companies should create with recycled materials with pride.
2. Smart Art Competition - Challenges artists and designers to use recycled items to create something wonderful, encouraging innovative ideas for upcycling.
3. Trashy Home Decor - Designers are utilizing trash to create remarkable home decor items, promoting sustainable consumerism.
Industry Implications
1. Interior Design - Designers can incorporate eco-friendly materials for their products to fit consumer needs for sustainable home decor pieces.
2. Fashion - Fashion brands can create clothes and accessories from recycled materials, meeting the demand for eco-friendly products.
3. Sustainability Consulting - Consulting companies can provide recycling solutions to help reduce waste for various industries such as retail and manufacturing.