I am a self-taught artist and have been working with recycled materials for over 20 years hoping to spark curiosity and raise awareness of the waste we create in our lives and its persistence in the environment. I collect many objects for my work while picking up trash out on Sandy Hook while other materials are collected from my own use and that of about 10 people that save things for me. I keep my collections organized and sorted and imagine how to use them in a sculpture that suits my sensibilities and works for the shape of the object I’m using. Sculptures range from tiny bottlecap pins to large outdoor installations; repeating themes are marine life, birds, cats, cakes and sandwiches. I find that I like to employ humor and lightheartedness to address the heaviness I feel regarding the environment crisis. I regularly show in and around NJ, PA and NY at galleries, festivals and work with environmental organizations and schools whenever possible to spread the word of anti-consumerism through creative arts. I’ve been building gardens (kill your lawn) and sculptures since 2004 and love creating with unwanted items. I find great joy in building giant brush piles that decompose, and though it is daunting, take pride in managing a popular community compost site. In both my day job and art, I take neglected things, be it a plastic bag, a vacant lot or rotting vegetables and try to build something inspiring. I live in Red Bank and currently manage Kula Farm in Asbury Park. Give me a follow Instagram: @lisa.bagwell Or check out my website LisaBagwell.com!