Upcycle
Cathy Newbery
2009
The term ‘upcycling’ refers to the practice of creating new objects from old, where the end product has a higher value than the original components and the original use.
The Upcycle project will explore effective models for the commissioning of experimental collaborative work. The focus for this research is the relationships between makers and other creative professionals who use both traditional and contemporary techniques, as well as second-hand or waste materials, to make extraordinary new work.
The research considers issues of best practice, aesthetics, the function of design within the climate change debate and the role of craft techniques and contemporary practice in relation to second-hand and waste materials. The project will also explore through a series of practical workshops and collaborations Upcycle themes and practice with the aim of developing a transferable model for practice.
Upcycle aims to connect the community in Cockermouth with people who can remodel objects that would be otherwise headed for landfill. Upcycle creatively addresses the issue of climate change at a local level by inspiring the community to enhance the value of objects through craft skills.
