The spring CAP class at STRIVE Prep – RISE really wanted to make an impact with their action project. They were interested in finding a way to educate their community on the issue of plastic pollution and waste. The class was introduced to Washed Ashore — a non-profit community that builds and exhibits aesthetically powerful art to educate a global audience about plastic pollution in oceans and waterways and spark positive changes in consumer habits. Afterwards students were inspired to utilize their artistic skills to create their own art pieces made of trash.

In groups or individually, students collected trash found around school and created original art pieces centered on a specific environmental message. Along with sending a message about pollution and how it is affecting the environment and its biodiversity, some students chose to highlight additional environmental issues.

Here are some of the messages students had to share about their art pieces: “Our duck is made the way it’s made because people always let their plastic go and it gets to the oceans, lakes, and rivers along with ponds.” “So our project shows the new world full of trash and bottles if we don’t do anything to stop pollution and recycle.” “Our starfish is trying to show/tell people that plastic is getting in their habitats and killing them. Starfish are also eating the plastic. Our hope is that this project can inspire others to be more conscious about pollution.

Written by CAP Instructor, Christina Guevara

See more photos from the project here!