Recycling Trucks with Artworks from Local Artists Hit DC

Recycling trucks, painted with original works from local artists under this year’s Designed to Recycle project, have hit Washington, D.C. streets. 

Designed to Recycle project, as part of Mayor Bowser’s mission to support D.C.’s creative community, encourages residents to make efforts to lessen landfill waste and pollution. Local artists were asked to submit proposals in spring this year. Later, the selected artworks were printed and wrapped on each of the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) recycling trucks.

Launched in 2015 with 10 trucks, the recycle initiative encourages recycling in the area and promotes local artists. The first truck wrapped in an artwork from a local artist was introduced in July this year. On September 6, two more such trucks were introduced on the streets in all eight districts.

“Through the Design to Recycle project, we are able to support and showcase the talent of our local artists, further enhance the visibility of the city’s recycling efforts and add to the creative landscape of the district in all eight wards,” Angie Gates, the interim director for the Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) which funds the project, said in a statement.

“Art has been a powerful tool in engaging residents with our agency’s work. The wrapped trucks forge a connection between our sanitation teams and the neighborhoods we serve, and our drivers are excited to drive them,” DPW Director Chris Shorter said. “We hope these moving pieces of art inspire citizens to remember the vital role they play in the city’s sustainability efforts.”