Highlighting Sustainability Efforts - Rethinking Plastic with Art on the High Line
We're thrilled to share our involvement in a powerful art project by Benjamin Von Wong that shines a light on the issue of single-use plastic!**
A Collaborative Effort Takes Center Stage on the High Line
Our journey began at our son Adam's middle school, Growing Up Green Middle School in Long Island City. There, we joined forces with Andrea Reyes and Carla Farina from the NYC Fair Trade Coalition to collect a significant amount of plastic bottles. These collected bottles, along with thousands more, became the building blocks for a thought-provoking art installation currently captivating audiences on the High Line in New York City!
"Single-Use Reflections": A Call to Action
The installation, titled "Single-Use Reflections," is currently on display on the iconic High Line, captivating audiences from April 5th until April 17th. This captivating piece serves as a powerful reminder of both the need for systemic change and the impact of individual choices. By highlighting the mountain of used plastic bottles, it encourages viewers to consider ways to reduce their reliance on single-use items and embrace reusable alternatives.
A Modern Hydra: Reflecting on Change
Drawing inspiration from the mythical Hydra – known for its ability to grow new heads when one is cut off – the installation mirrors the ever-growing problem of plastic waste. Large-scale mirrors adorned the plastic mountain, prompting passersby to reflect on their role in advocating for change.
A Glimpse into a Plastic-Free Future
Tucked within the installation is a hidden gem – a tribute to old-school apothecary practices, reminding us of a time before plastic became a ubiquitous material. This serves as a hopeful glimpse into a possible future where single-use plastic is a relic of the past.
Leading by Example: Kiehl's Commitment to Sustainability
"Single-Use Reflections" wouldn't have been possible without the support of Kiehl's, the project sponsor. This leading skincare brand has pledged to eliminate single-use plastic from their products by 2030. Their commitment involves designing all packaging to be reused, refilled, or made from recycled materials.
Building Change, One Bottle at a Time
The impressive structure was created by Brooklyn-based fabrication studio SFDS and engineered by Theta Consulting. But the real magic came from the community effort. The Sustainable Fashion Community Collective and Kiehl's Recycle and Be Rewarded program played a crucial role in collecting over 3 tons of non-food-based household plastics. Hundreds of volunteers dedicated their time to cleaning, organizing, and transforming what could have become landfill waste into a powerful piece of art advocating for a more sustainable future.
A Powerful Message for Change
As "Single-Use Reflections" continues to captivate audiences on the High Line, it serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible. By working together, we can all play a role in reducing our reliance on single-use plastic and building a more sustainable future.
Get Involved!
We encourage you to visit "Single-Use Reflections" on the High Line before April 17th and experience this thought-provoking installation firsthand. Learn more about the project and how you can get involved in the fight against single-use plastic by visiting Time Out Article.
Let's work together to create a future where art and sustainability go hand in hand!
Behind the scene photos captured by Manuel Gussmann.
Benjamin Website: https://www.vonwong.com/