Upcycled Art

In this creative and hands-on activity, Scouts will explore how everyday waste can be transformed into unique works of art. They'll learn the importance of recycling, reusing, and respecting natural resources, with links to Indigenous Australian perspectives on sustainability. This is a great way to encourage environmental responsibility while fostering imagination and problem-solving.

What you'll need

• A selection of clean recyclable materials:

  • Bottle caps, cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, paper rolls, cartons, cans

• Art supplies:

  • Glue, scissors, sticky tape, paint, markers, yarn, string

• Access to nature (if doing the Indigenous-inspired extension outdoors)

• Optional: Picture books or images of recycled art for inspiration

• Space to set up a gallery to display finished artworks

Activity

• Brainstorm Ideas:

  • As a group, talk about what you could make from the available materials.

  • Suggested ideas: bottle cap mosaics, cardboard sculptures, wind chimes, hanging mobiles.

• Choose Your Project:

  • Allow each Scout to choose materials that interest them.

  • They can work alone or in pairs to plan what they’ll create.

• Create Your Artwork:

  • Build your project using the materials and art supplies.

  • Encourage creativity and resourcefulness—every item should have a reused purpose.

  • Provide guidance on safe cutting and joining techniques.

• Optional Indigenous-Inspired Challenge:

  • If outside, challenge Scouts to use only what they find naturally (leaves, twigs, stones)

  • Ask them to create something inspired by nature—like an animal, shelter, or totem

  • Link to the principle of taking only what’s needed and leaving no trace

• Gallery Showcase:

  • When complete, set up a space to display everyone’s creations.

  • Let Scouts share what they made, what it was made from, and what inspired it.

Sources:

1. Recycling and sustainability concepts inspired by Aboriginal perspectives:
   
   • https://www.evolves.com.au/connection-to-country/
     
   • https://www.welcometocountry.org/gangurru-aboriginal-kangaroo-facts/
     
2. Indigenous games and creativity:
   • https://www.sportaus.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/705462/Yulunga_Games.pdf
     

Change the challenge level

Easier:

• Provide starter templates or base shapes

• Offer ideas and examples to guide younger Scouts

• Pair Scouts with a buddy for support

Harder:

• Ask Scouts to build something that is also functional (e.g. pencil holder, toy, musical instrument)

• Introduce limits (e.g. only 3 materials, or build something using only one type of recycled item)

• Encourage a presentation that links their project to sustainability goals or Indigenous values

Reflection