The fuel tank of a two-wheeler, the body of an auto-rickshaw, wheels of a cycle and engine parts of a car. Did you ever think that these parts of a discarded vehicle could be shaped into a work of art? That vehicle scrap could actually have some aesthetic value? 

Students of the Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Guindy are moulding metal waste into beautiful works of sculpture while Zone 13 of Greater Chennai Corporation is doing the same with scrap from two-wheelers. Known as junk art, this art form could be an ideal solution for scrap waste management and can facilitate the attainment of Chennai’s zero-waste goal.

Vijayawada-based sculptor, Srinivas Padakandla, has guided students at the ITI and is now working on the junk art project from Chennai Corporation. “For a lot of people, vehicles are more than a mode of transport; they develop an emotional bond with them. So, instead of selling unused vehicles as scrap to mechanics for a low price, we can transform them into beautiful art pieces,” said Srinivas.

People of all groups can relate to junk art for the easy making and availability of metal scrap. “It triggers innovation among students. With very low or even zero investment, we have made miniatures and aesthetic wall art. A lot of people have made stools and gates for their household using the metal scrap,” explained Srinivas. 

 Take a look at the sculptures that are being worked on at the Government ITI and Zone 13, and you may want one too.

(All pics by the author)