Artist and Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) Creative Technologies student Shar Young, supports the push to reduce the use of plastic supermarket bags with her own brand of recycling – transforming used plastic bags into works of art. 

Collecting various household plastic bags, Shar has crocheted the material together to recreate ducks, sea gulls and other birdlife affected by pollution.  Her work makes a statement about the effect plastic bags and other pollutants have on native wildlife and their widespread use in suburban households.  New Zealanders currently use more than one billion plastic bags each year. 

Locally renowned for her brand of recycled art, Shar Young is gaining a reputation as an artist concerned with sustainability.  Her work has been showcased in various galleries across Wellington and during the latest Mt Victoria Organic and Sustainability Festival. 

Shar says her inspiration stems from the idea that small, individual actions can have large consequences.  

“I like how art allows you to express both personal and universal issues and in a way tell a story to those viewing your work.” 

The plastic birds were originally made as part of a Visual Arts project for her studies at WelTec where she is currently completing a Bachelor of Creative Technologies majoring in Visual Arts.  “I really enjoy both creating and studying art - it’s fascinating to find out what artists are doing globally and locally to make a difference to the environment we inhabit.” 

 “I really appreciated the art and design tutors at WelTec.  They are practicing artists ahead in their own fields.  They really know what makes an artist tick, and how to get the best out of you.”  

 Previously a graphic designer, Shar decided to take a break from her work and return to study.  WelTec’s Creative Technologies programme was recommended by the director of TheNewDowse at the time, Tim Walker.

 “Tim said the Creative Technologies degree at WelTec had a strong interdisciplinary approach to art and design.  I also appreciated how WelTec took my prior study and experience in the industry into account which meant I didn’t have to repeat any learning.”

 Last month Shar’s latest work was exhibited at the Nanageddon Show at ROAR and also held a public workshop at Pablos Art Studio where participants were invited to make a little cell phone or ipod bag using the technique of crochet.

For more information about Creative Technologies at WelTec call 0800 WelTec (0800 935 832) or visit www.weltec.ac.nz.