ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Bonifas Arts Center is seeking submissions for a creative and environmentally-friendly exhibit.
The Bonifas’ annual UP Cycle exhibit opens on April 18, just in time for Earth Day.
“UP Cycle started during 2020,” said Bonifas Gallery Director Kate Oman. “We were able to open our doors again and have people come in, and the public really seemed to enjoy the exhibit. Everybody got to really challenge themselves as artists.”
Artists are encouraged to create original pieces using objects that would otherwise end up in a landfill. So far, submissions include sculptures, 2D and 3D artwork, and collages. Each piece contains roughly 85% upcycled materials.
“The concept of how long these materials last in the landfill is astonishing,” said Oman. “We only have one earth, and we’re using up its resources faster than we can keep up with being able to protect the planet. Why make something new when you can reuse something and turn it into art?”
Oman says UP Cycle is an opportunity for artists to do some good for the planet and explore new ways to create.
“It is really important to me, personally, because I do take pride in where I live,” she said. “I hope other people would want to be able to join that movement. Also, just looking at the materials and seeing a new way to use them, that’s what’s exciting to me.”
The non-juried show will be judged by Marquette artist Stella Larkin. Cash awards will be given for first, second, and third places, along with honorable mentions. A Bonifas membership will be awarded to the artist who earns the People’s Choice Award.
Upcycled art can be dropped off at the Bonifas Arts Center during business hours now through April 14 at 11 a.m. Artists can submit up to four pieces, and the entry fee is $15 for Bonifas members and $25 for non-members. Click here to view the application.
The Bonifas, located at 700 1st Avenue South, is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
