Although plastic bags are an environmental hazard for numerous reasons, Pakistani artist Khalil Chishtee found them useful when creating these introspective sculptures. These real-size, human-looking figures seem to be melting away by the way the artist arranged the trash bags.
Torn and on the verge disintegrating, these statues symbolize how humans interact with their identities. The artist explains his idea behind using plastic as a metaphor to represent the idea of identity: "So why do we change after being replaced? ...We change names, religion, language and even emotions. Why can't we also remain 'human beings' that we essentially are?"
Despite the passage of time or being recycled, plastic remains almost the same, which is why Khalil Chishtee uses this material to illustrate how humans cope with emotions in their daily lives.
Melodramatic Recycled Sculptures
The Designs by Khalil Chishtee are Made of Plastic Bags
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Art - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Artists can explore the use of unconventional materials, like plastic bags, to create thought-provoking and environmentally conscious sculptures.
2. Identity Exploration - Disruptive innovation opportunity: There is potential for artists to use visual representations, such as melting statues made from recycled materials, to provoke conversations about personal and cultural identity.
3. Emotional Connection - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Artists can experiment with materials that evoke strong emotions, like worn and disintegrating plastic, to create sculptures that resonate deeply with viewers.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Sculpture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Sculptors and artists can incorporate recycled or unconventional materials into their creations, offering unique and sustainable artworks.
2. Environmental Conservation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Organizations and businesses focused on environmental protection can collaborate with artists to raise awareness about plastic pollution through visually impactful sculptures made from recycled materials.
3. Public Engagement - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Event planners and PR firms can incorporate large-scale installations, such as melting plastic sculptures, to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences for audiences.