HAPPY TRASH: BUILD THE FUTURE
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HAPPY TRASH: BUILD THE FUTURE *
HAPPY TRASH: BUILD THE FUTURE
ART INSTALLATION CHALLENGE
Join the Carver community in a creative, hands-on art challenge using “happy trash”—clean, upcycled and recycled materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
Inspired by creativity, sustainability, and learning through play, participants will transform everyday discarded items into large-scale art installations to be displayed and celebrated at the Carver Carnival.
Think bold. Think imaginative. Think joyful. Where trash becomes treasure — and ideas are built brick by brick.
THE BIG IDEA: This challenge isn’t about perfection—it’s about possibility. How can we build something meaningful using what we already have?
Let’s show how Carver creates, reuses, and builds a brighter future—one happy piece of trash at a time!
PROJECT GUIDELINES
Each installation must be at least 2 ft x 2 ft in size
Cardboard must be included as part of your build (it does not need to be the base)
Projects may be created by individuals, families, classrooms, or groups
Materials must be clean, safe, and primarily upcycled/recycled
Paint and finishes are allowed to enhance your design
WHAT IS HAPPY TRASH?
Cardboard, boxes, tubes
Plastic lids, bottles, containers
Paper scraps, packaging
Fabric, old or stained clothing, textiles
Bottle caps, string, foil, egg cartons
*No food waste, sharp objects or hazardous materials*
DESIGN-BASED LEARNING
IMAGINE – What do you want to build or say
DESIGN – Sketch, plan, or prototype
BUILD – Create using upcycled materials
REFLECT – How does your piece inspire new thinking about waste, creativity, or community?
JUDGING RUBRIC
Creativity – Original ideas, storytelling, and artistic expression
Best Use of Materials – Inventive, thoughtful use of upcycled materials
Community Builders – Collaboration and teamwork
Visual Impact – Scale and ability to captivate from a distance.