Action Against Litter newsletter – Issue 13

B’inspired: turning bins into works of art

What if a bin could be more than just a bin?

This year, Thanet’s recycling bins have been given a colourful makeover as part of B’inspired, a public art project designed to make recycling facilities more visible, attractive and engaging.

The project sees artists create original artwork directly onto recycling bin housings, transforming everyday street furniture into one-of-a-kind pieces of public art. Each bin also incorporates recycling information to remind people what the bins are for.

The first phase began in April, with artworks appearing at seafront locations from Margate Main Sands to Minnis Bay, as well as in Ramsgate. Artists involved include local and internationally recognised street artists, with the project being delivered in collaboration with Rise Up Residency.

The project also builds on Thanet’s reputation for using creativity and public art to encourage positive environmental behaviour.

And the artwork is continuing to grow. More artists will be involved in later phases, creating an outdoor gallery across Thanet while helping to promote responsible waste disposal.

Public art can help change the way we see the spaces around us. By turning something as ordinary as a recycling bin into something colourful and eye-catching, B’inspired aims to make recycling part of the landscape, and part of the conversation.

Look out for the bins as you explore Thanet’s coast and town centres.