Larger-than-life art shines light on recycling at the Thornleigh Community Recycling Centre
The walls of Hornsby Shire Council’s Community Recycling Centre (CRC) at Thornleigh are shining a light on the importance of recycling e-waste and organics, thanks to two new larger-than- life murals by two of Australia’s best-known mural artists, Tim Phibs and Steven Nuttall – aka Ox King.
Located on the back wall of the facility, RE://CYCLEby Sydney artist Ox King (Steven Nuttall) highlights the goldmine of resources available in e-waste waste (computers, televisions and associated items). The mural depicts the relationship between technology, society and nature and acts as a call to arms for our residents to recycle old electronic waste at the CRC.
“RE://CYCLE' explores our relationship with electronic waste and the impact of fast tech on our natural environment,” Nutall said.
“The mural features some of my favourite technology growing up that has now fallen by the wayside in favour of more modern alternatives. It asks if these once beloved items are worth saving and what is the impact of the ever-growing advancement of disposable technology. How long can this exponential cycle continue before we are swamped by our own progress?”
From little things, big things grow by Tim Phibs, on the left of the facility, talks about the importance of recycling organic waste. It celebrates the incredible biodiversity, productivity and new life in soils that have been rejuvenated using recycled organic materials through composting or worm farming.
“In the centre of the mural is a pair of hands that represents us the people holding soil which is sprouting a seedling/new growth. This symbolises that it is up to us, and we are all responsible to be mindful of the impact we have on the world around us,” Phibs said.
“It’s time to be aware, educate and change the way we live to create a brighter future.”
The new murals build on the success of the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle mural painted last year which transformed the CRC into a local landmark.
The CRC is a free service that makes it easy for residents to safely dispose of problem waste that cannot go into household rubbish bins or kerbside collection. The large range of items accepted includes household car and motorcycle batteries, soft and hard plastics, polystyrene, electronic waste, flattened cardboard, gas bottles, mobile phones and more.
The murals can be viewed next time you visit the CRC at 29 Sefton Road, Thornleigh. The centre is open Tuesday to Friday 8.30am – 4pm and Saturday 8.30am – 12pm. For information on what can be recycled visit www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/crc
Images:
Top: New murals RE://CYCLEby Ox King and From little things, big things grow by Tim Phibs at the Thornleigh Recycling Centre
Left: RE://CYCLEby Ox King
Right: From little things, big things grow by Tim Phibs
