Reusing, Recycling, and Reinventing Art

Revolution Recovery is a 3.5 acre construction, demolition, and manufacturing waste recycling facility in Philadelphia, that processes over 250 tons of materials per day, and in 2004 an artist residency program was formed there. RAIR, Philadelphia’s Recycled Artist in Residency, commissions artists to create inspiring works out of discarded items, creating awareness about sustainability issues through art and design. One of RAIR’s founders, the Philadelphia-based artist Billy Dufala, along with one of RAIR’s former artists in residence Bryan Zanisnik, discuss the program and the art that it has inspired.

Bryan Zanisnik, RAIR, Philadelphia’s Recycled Artist in Residency

(Bryan Zanisnik/Courtesy of the artist)

Carrie Mae Smith, RAIR, Philadelphia’s Recycled Artist in Residency

(Carrie Mae Smith/Courtesy of the artist)

Geoff Sobelle, RAIR, Philadelphia’s Recycled Artist in Residency

(Geoff Sobelle/Courtesy of the artist)