Humans make plastic
I began making plastic mobiles out of waste plastic bags, back in 2013 in Bolivia - I then exhibited them in public spaces so they could be viewed alongside the natural environment they were threatening.
This blog starts in Bolivia. Whilst I was based there as a resident artist for NGO Sustainable Bolivia, I investigated how plastic was used in the South American nation. This led me to not only make mobiles out of plastic bags, but it fired up my desire to draw attention to the litter issue in Cochabamba, the city I was staying in. In time, it has led me to want to spread the message in the UK and highlight the problem we have with plastic waste.
Today in London I continue to make mobiles out of plastic from the canals, and plastics that are currently not widely recycled. I look at nature, natural forms and pattern, especially flowers and the alges that cover the canal during the summer months. Instead of exhibiting them along the canals, I hold workshops to help teach mobile creation, but also it's a way of sharing my passion for plastic waste.
During workshops I provide visual aids with a strong emphasis on the natural and architectural environment through which the canal passes. I then hand the creativity over to the participants, all the while standing by offering practical advice. I want those attending to make something meaningful to them, something that will make them feel good.
How's it done?
Humans Make Plastic is a huge mobile that I've constructed with the work made by participants of three workshops in conjunction with UCL. To connect the many smaller mobiles I used strands of plastic bags and wire, and wove sections of striking colour through the piece to give it some uniformity and make it visually stimulating. When hung the mobile moves and flows in the air.
It’s delicate nature is a direct reflection of the fragilities of our environment.
Camilla Brendon
What's upcoming?
I’m getting ready to give my next workshop, this time it will be at my studio, Kindred in Maida Hill a ten minute walk from the Regent's Canal. The workshop is called Trash Tree Decorations and will enable participants to make decorations out of plastic bottles. It will run from 2pm - 6pm on Saturday 17 of November. The open studio is 17/18 November 12 noon - 6pm, and there is a full program of events both days.
If you come along feel free to bring old plastic bottles from home and any you've picked up from canal tow paths, we can use them all.
The open studios are free and fun for all ages, dogs on leads are welcome.
Humans Make Plastic will be exhibited at Kindred during the open studio.
I’ll be showing works from my series of paintings and collages COAST at the Lexi Cinema in Kensal Rise, a ten minute walk form the Ladbroke Grove Canal. This showing will incorporate a site specific installation. November 27 - January 7 with an opening reception on the 27 November from 6:30 - 8:00.