Make art, raise awareness about the impact that waste has on our environment, and take action to be a part of the solution!

Do I have to live in Utica to participate?

You do NOT need to live in the city of Utica, NY to participate, but we ask that you choose an area in Utica to clean up! If you want to participate in the gallery, you (or a representative) will need to be in Utica to deliver your artwork to the gallery in July 2024, and retrieve it at the end of the exhibition.

Can I submit a Group Project?

You can cleanup or create artwork as a group! Just be sure to let us know who is participating in your group in your submission form.

Where can I get Cleanup Materials?

Trash bags, high visibility vests, and gloves are provided by Keep Mohawk Valley Beautiful and will be available at all Utica Creative Reuse events.

what are the rules for submitting artwork?

You must participate in cleaning up an area in Utica, NY,
Your artwork must incorporate trash or found objects from that cleanup
Artwork must be submitted by May 31, 2024 to be considered for our gallery exhibition in July 2024.

can i use items other than trash to create my artwork?

Yes! You can work with any other materials (paint, paper, clay, wood, mortar, etc.) as long as your finished artwork incorporates some amount of trash or found objects from your community cleanup.

What are some examples of trash art?

Check out some amazing reuse artists who incorporate trash and found objects in their work on our Inspiration page!

How do I Document my Cleanup?

Please be prepared to submit the following information with your art project:

Date and location of your cleanup(s)
How much garbage did you collect (number and size of bags filled)?
At least one photo documenting your cleanup efforts
- *If you are unable to take a photo of your cleanup, you can still submit your project! Just note the general area and date that you cleaned up litter in your submission