The sculptures that make up the Human Debris series are so striking, it would take people by surprise that they were made with manmade waste, hence the title. While some people might be taken aback at the thought of beautifying such litter, others will see Human Debris as a natural, if unfortunate, part of life.
Created by Jeremy Underwood, an artist based in Houston, Texas, the Human Debris series explores the environmental conditions of his city's waterways. As written on his website, "Taking reference from such artists as Andy Goldsworthy, Robert Smithson and Richard Long, this work challenges viewers to reflect upon our consumer culture, the relationship we have with our environment and the pervasion of pollution."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Eco-art
- Jeremy Underwood's Human Debris series demonstrates the potential for using manmade waste in artistic expression.
- Upcycling
- Creating art from litter and waste promotes upcycling and encourages environmental consciousness.
- Environmental Awareness
- Pieces like Human Debris bring greater attention to environmental concerns and our impact on the planet.
Where This Applies
- Art and Design
- The art world can embrace the use of unconventional materials and promote innovative techniques.
- Waste Management
- Innovation in waste management technology and practices is essential seeing the rampant pollution and litter.
- Environmental Advocacy
- Environmental organizations can harness art as a means of raising awareness and educating the public on environmental issues.
