24 September 2008
Guitars made from yoghurt pots and tables made from mobile phones? Starting this month in Guildford, art and the environment combine in an exciting exhibition with a difference - a colourful display of innovative products and artwork made from recycled material.
With the aim of raising awareness of recycling and its impact on climate change, the Recycled by Design exhibition - the brainchild of Guildford Borough Council - features work by local artists who have collaborated with schools, day centres and the local community.
Lead Councillor for the Environment, Cllr Jenny Wicks, explains: “Guildford is taking a lead role promoting innovative art design using recycled materials through this environmentally friendly exhibition. We seem to have sparked the interest of artists and creators - both professional and amateur - across the whole county.
“The exhibition features a living room furnished with designer goods made from recycled materials and the best industrial design, fine art and community art. It raises awareness of the importance of recycling, valuing our towns and countryside through clearing up our waste.”
A series of Recycled by Design events will also be taking place including the chance to see a windmill being made from old newspaper and silicon waste being turned into works of art, as well as a guided tour of the exhibition and children’s workshop.
Adds Cllr Wicks: “Guildford Borough Council is committed to increasing recycling rates - we’re on track to reach a recycling and home composting rate of 60% by 2010 - and the community is giving us great support. It’s vital that we close the loop and buy recycled goods and the exhibition and events show how exciting and inspiring this can be”.
Guildford Borough Council is working with Woking Borough Council and lead artist Caroline Jackman on the project. Recycled by Design runs from 20 September until 11 October at Guildford House Gallery in Guildford High Street. For more information visit Guildford House Gallery or call 01483 444742. Guildford House Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am until 4.45pm. Admission is free.
This initiative is part of Guildford Borough Council's commitment to improving residents’ local surroundings, by focusing on issues that matter most to them such as a cleaner, safer and greener environment.