Warwickshire News Mine

Underwear hangers were just some of the unusual materials which were recycled and transformed into models and mobiles at a special session run by CREATES (Creative Recycling Enviro-Arts Training and Education Service).

CREATES is run by Warwickshire County Council’s Artists in Warwickshire Education team, in a unique partnership with recycling company Trees are Green who advise companies on waste reduction, recycling and disposal operations and has organised a number of its customers to donate waste materials for use in the CREATES arts workshops and projects.

The CREATES project shows teachers and other people who work with children how to use recycled materials creatively while helping the environment at the same time.  The teachers who took part in the taster workshop worked with a professional artist to learn new techniques for the classroom. CREATES has been celebrating its one year anniversary this month.

Caroline Robinson, Store Replenishment Manager for Bravissimo, was also on hand to see how materials that the firm donated are being used in creative ways.  The Bravissimo warehouse which is based at Tachbrook Link has been involved in the CREATES scheme by donating hangers for the schools to use as part of this project. Bravissimo is a lingerie, swimwear and clothing retailer.

Trees are Green are appealing for even more firms to get involved by donating materials for recycling. Trees are Green source materials, provide containers for recycling, collect materials, sort and store materials and provide the facilities for their “Warehouse of Wonders” where the CREATES workshops are held. Waste materials as diverse as crisp packets, discarded bobbins and fabric off cuts are used to creative effect at the warehouse.
 
Peter Squires, Bravissimo Operations Manager, said: " We are delighted to be a part of this great recycling scheme."

Vikki Holroyd of Artists in Warwickshire Education, added: “CREATES is going from strength to strength with schools using it in exciting, creative ways. We can only continue the work with support of local businesses like Bravissimo and we would like to encourage more companies to donate in order for us to sustain this brilliant scheme.”

The schools which took part in the taster session included Abbey Pre-School in Kenilworth, St Paul’s CofE Primary in Leamington, Sure Stars Neighbourhood Nursery in Leamington and Moseley Primary in Coventry.

Companies who would like to donate materials on a regular basis should contact Trees are Green on 01926 498 855.

Link to WCC