Hang it on the wall and call it art . . . even if it's garbage. Artists from across the country are doing just that, and some of their pieces can be seen at the Great Garbage Binge Art Show in Gallery 2 of the Campus School through Sept. 26. The show represents a national exhibition, juried by Sandy Harthorn of the Boise Art Museum and writer Chris Schnoor.

The idea underlying the featured creations is one of political and social outrage. The painters and sculptors here often use several forms of mixed media such as paint, objects found in waste disposals, and craft materials to create "recycled art."

Landfills become a playground of expression, revealing a problem our society can't seem to remedy: waste.

Harthorn and Schnoor said the show "mirrors the reality we often choose to ignore." The assemblage art is designed to reflect our daily rituals of consumption. Some of the works may seem humorous at first sight, while others contain disturbing and realistic symbols forcing the onlooker to think twice about the American lifestyle.

Shari Montana exhibits a piece called "Scare Crow 1," containing a portion of yellow rope contorted to resemble a human affixed to a cross of scrap wood.Beneath the figure on the wood are the words, "I, Me." Alongside the central body lie playing cards, a Bible and other religious icons. It appears the artist also condemns herself for taking part in the worship of consumerism.

Another powerful piece is called Study of My Fears by artist David Brady. Medical paraphernalia, including a syringe and vial of blood are attached to the painting, alongside a filthy tin can over a face replete with horror.

Two seemingly comical works include the "Pig" made of scrap metal, and "Ratz," which contains an actual rat skull on a hanging collage. Despite their absurdity, it makes perfect sense that these two animals often associated with trash and sloth find their way to this collection.

"We and They" by Tom Diamond articulates a more subtle statement. It resembles a small refrigerator on the wall, but inside viewers can find a notepad with a scorecard and tallied points under"WE" and "THEY." In every instance, "WE" is defeated by "THEY." Perhaps this presents a cry from the environmentally conscious, always under the thumb of those who produce and manufacture.

Each work could be looked at in many ways, but the overall theme appears unified. Art appreciation is often a personal experience, particularly when prompted by controversial themes and nontraditional materials. The intersection of art and garbage invites active participation from every viewer.

articles main