Turning Waste into Wonder: A Student Experience with the i3C Artists

Students at Thayer had the opportunity to connect directly with the artists of Waste to Treasure, an exhibition by the eco-minded i3C Collective (Inspiring Change for the Climate Crisis). During the in-school reception, students talked with participating artists about their work, creative processes, and the ways they transform discarded and rejected materials into thought-provoking works of art.

The exhibition offers a timely exploration of environmental and climate crises while also celebrating the beauty of the natural world and the interconnectedness of all species. Through conversations with the artists, students were encouraged to think differently about waste, sustainability, creativity, and our relationship with the planet.

Students also participated in a hands-on workshop focused on natural pigments, exploring how materials from the natural world can be transformed into color and used as an artistic medium. The workshop provided an opportunity for students to experiment, create, and connect the ideas explored in the gallery with their own artistic practices.

We look forward to welcoming the broader Thayer community to the gallery during Homecoming this Saturday, October 3, from 12–3 p.m. Families, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are invited to experience Waste to Treasure and explore the ideas, materials, and artwork that have sparked curiosity and inspired our students.

Waste to Treasure features work by Susan Altman, Liliana Folta, Cedric Harper (co-curator), Martha Heller, Rebecca McGee Tuck, Michaela Morse, Jeffrey Nowlin, Anna Pancoast, Adriana G. Prat (co-curator), and Yulia Shtern.