What is upcycling? Simply put, upcycling is taking something of lesser value—often unwanted or discarded materials—and transforming it into something more useful, beautiful, or valuable. Enter the Philadelphia Dumpster Divers, a group of found-object artists whose motto (penned by founder Neil Benson) is, "Trash is simply a failure of imagination."
I am privileged to be a member of this unique and wonderfully eccentric band of upcycling artists who truly believe that one person's trash can—and should—become another person's treasure.
Our group is a wonderful mix of people, ranging in age from their 30s to their 70s. We gather once a month at a member's home or studio to eat, drink, trade found objects, organize exhibitions, and share ideas for community outreach. Once a year, we meet at the Famous Deli just off South Street—the event is affectionately known as the Diver Awards Banquet.
Many of us arrive wearing elaborate costumes made from reclaimed materials in a playful parody of the Academy Awards. Naturally, the awards themselves are crafted from recycled treasures, and everyone leaves smiling after our annual group photo, taken by resident diver photographer I. George Bilyk.
Every diver has an inspiring collection of materials rescued from dumpsters, curbsides, thrift stores, and flea markets, all waiting for the next creative spark. Sharing is one of the best parts of every monthly meeting. Materials that are no longer calling to one artist often become the perfect ingredient for someone else's next masterpiece.
Speaking of inspired art, here's a wall of completed works in my studio. Below are just a few examples of the incredible creations made by fellow Dumpster Divers.
On April 1, 2012, the Philadelphia Dumpster Divers celebrated their 20th anniversary and were honored by the Mayor of Philadelphia for their commitment to recycling, reuse, and upcycling, as well as their creative approach to supporting a more sustainable city, country, and world.
If you're interested in creative reuse projects of your own, there are countless ways to give discarded items a second life. Upcycling is one small way we can all help reduce waste while creating something meaningful.
Burnell wore the Puttin' on the Jams Patch Pants.
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