We recently read -- in a couple of different places -- about SF Recycling & Disposal's Artist in Residence Program. It's very cool.

The goal of the program is to use art to inspire people to recycle more and conserve natural resources.

SF Recycling & Disposal selects local artists and provides them with a residency, which includes 24-hour access to materials they gather from SF's refuse, along with access to a 2,000-square foot studio, supplies and equipment, a stipend, and a reception/exhibit.

In exchange for the residency, the artists create art for the permanent art collection, and talk to students, tour groups, and the media about the experience of turning trash into treasure.

In 1992, a three-acre sculpture garden was built adjacent to the Transfer Station, where some of the larger pieces of art created by resident artists are on display.

Tours are held on the third Saturday of each month.

Many pieces of art from the program are exhibited in office buildings and public spaces in SF.

The next exhibit will be in September -- we'll be sure to include it in our Events Calendar.

(Artists, top to bottom: Andrew Junge, Henri Marie-Rose, Linda Raynsford, Mark Faigenbaum, James Gouldthorpe, Ed Clapp, Mike Farruggia)