Managing Waste in Nigeria: The Approach of the Production of Upcycled Sculptures

Abstract

The tremendous increase in population in Nigeria has brought about great solid waste deposits in every nook and cranny of the country thereby posing health challenges to the country and to human race in general. This development has led to exploration of various avenues of waste management. However with the advent of the use of waste material for visual expression in contemporary arts, there has been a remarkable advancement in the process and meaning of waste management. Waste as art material goes beyond recycling but also connects with both the artist and the viewer by giving them the opportunity to reflect on their lifestyle. In view of this problem, this study centred on using discarded tyres, rubber tubes and metal drink containers as a medium for sculptural production, a campaign against environmental degradation. The study employed an explorative method of research. Data were collected through both primary and secondary sources, also visited Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ANSWAMA). Since the study is a practice-led research, various exploration was carried out in the studio, using discarded tyres, rubber tubes and metal drink containers. A qualitative method of evaluation was employed in the project. The study observes that artists especially sculptors, have been experimenting and tapping into the riches of solid waste materials and incorporating them into their sculpture production. This work therefore encourages sculptors and artists in Nigeria to experiment more on discarded materials so as to meet up with the contemporaries in other parts of the world.