‘Recycled’ art is on the rise

  • Sarah Jackson
  • Thursday, March 6, 2008 11:38am
  • Life

There’s more than one way to recycle a soda can or a plastic bag.

Around the country, all kinds of artists have turned to garbage and recyclables to create works of art that not only make statements about our consumerist and sometimes throw-away culture, but they also look pretty cool. too.

One of the leading recycled artists in the Northwest is Diane Kurzyna of Olympia, aka Ruby Re-Usable, who I met during my five years in our fair capital city.

Using everything from old Wonder Bread bags to aluminum soda can tabs, Kurzyna has created sculptures, masks, dolls, alphabets, baskets and more elaborate pieces as well, including a full-scale Jewish wedding exhibit titled “White Trash Wedding,” made of white trash and recyclables, natch.

Kurzyna, whose work most recently appeared in Snohomish County at “The Art of Recycling” exhibit at the Monte Cristo gallery in downtown Everett last spring, has a blog featuring recycled art projects in Olympia and around the world.

While you’re at it, you might check out the plastic bag recycling tricks of Everett’s own Karen Erickson, who turns plastic grocery bags into sturdy, waterproof farmers market bags, hats and wine totes.

You might be inspired to make your own recyclable art for Earth Day or you might just revel in the novelty and freedom of expression all of our castoff plastics inspire.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

Arlo Frostad, 7, and his twin brother Harrison Frostad, walk through the fields of Roozengaarde outside of Mount Vernon, Washington during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival on April 10, 2025. (Will Geschke / The Herald)
Stop and smell the flowers at Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

The largest tulip festival in North America features five gardens and runs through April.

Image from Canva.com
Say “I Do” to these stunning wedding venues

From rustic barns to elegant halls, discover where love stories in Snohomish County begin.

Grayson Bed and Breakfast (Photo courtesy of HD Estates and Grayson Bed and Breakfast)
The Grayson Bed and Breakfast: Where strangers become friends

A cozy retreat with scenic views and pet-friendly amenities just two miles from downtown Monroe.

Image from Prince Life Photography website.
Light, lens & love: These photographers bring the magic

Want to see who’s turning everyday moments into jaw-dropping memories? Let’s find out.

Small SUV Provides Big Time Value. Photo Provided by Chevrolet Newsroom
2025 Chevy Trax Activ Delivers Beyond Expectations

Sub-Compact SUV Surprises With Value And Features

Hai Viet Hong, center, performs with the Huong Viet Performing Arts Group during The Wendt Mayor’s Arts Awards on Thursday, April 10 in Everett, Washington. (Will Geschke / The Herald)
Everett artists celebrated with The Wendt Mayor’s Arts Awards

Award recipients included a former City Council member and the former publisher of My Everett News.

2025 Honda Civic Si sport-compact sedan (Provided by Honda).
2025 Honda Civic Si could be the darling of young drivers

Bold styling, fun-to-drive performance and reasonable pricing are part of the appeal.

The Tulalip Resort Casino. (Sue Misao / The Herald)
Check in, chill out, and wake up to comfort

These top Snohomish County stays are serving up relaxation, charm, and a touch of luxury

The 2025 Ford F-150 full-size pickup, in the XLT trim (Provided by Ford).
2025 Ford F-150 can do hard work but still be comfortable

The multifaceted popular pickup meets the needs of many different buyers.

Q4 55 e-tron quattro photo provided by Audi Media Center
2025 Audi Q4 55 e-tron SUV Makes Driving Electric Easier Than Ever

Upgrades Include Enhanced Power, Range, And Quicker Charging

Trailhunter photo provided by Toyota Newsroom
2025 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter Designed For Off-Road

New Standard Equipment Adds Even More Functionality

The 2025 Infiniti QX80 full-size luxury SUV (Provided by Infiniti).
2025 Infiniti QX80 is a complete remodel

The full-size luxury SUV has fresh styling, advanced technology and a new twin-turbo V6 engine.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.