HEINRICH BOELL INST: Artful Transformations

Southeast Asian Artists Embrace Trash as
a Medium for Change

In Southeast Asia, artists are transforming the region's trash into a source of inspiration. With over a million of tonnes of plastic waste entering the sea annually these artists are advocating for sustainability through their work. They explore the 3R concept—Reduce, Re-use, Re-think—and create eco-responsible art that challenges perceptions of waste. From playful Christmas tree sculptures to impactful "Sustainable Map," their innovative approach encourages a shift towards a circular economy. These artists redefine beauty from discarded objects, addressing pollution issues creatively. Through their work, they invite audiences to rethink their relationship with waste and embrace a more responsible approach to consumption.