Tuscaloosa launches first Recycled Art Contest

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) - The city of Tuscaloosa’s Environmental Services Department has launched its very first Recycled Art Contest.

The competition invites community members of all ages to turn their everyday waste and recyclable materials into original works of art for the contest. It encourages participants to rethink what they’re throwing away by transforming recycled, reused or repurposed materials into original artwork.

Environmental Services said they aim to raise environmental awareness, inspire creative reuse and show how everyday materials can be given a second life instead of being sent to the landfill.

Artists are encouraged to incorporate materials such as cardboard, plastics, paper, metal, glass and other clean discarded items into their creations. The primary materials used in each piece should be recycled, reused or repurposed, according to organizers.

Environmental Services will have recycled glass mulch available for participants to use in their artwork. Those who are interested may request up to five gallons by clicking or tapping here. Glass mulch will be available for pickup at the Tuscaloosa Environmental Services Department at 3440 Reese Phifer Avenue. Participants must bring their own container.

The contest will have two divisions: 17 and younger, 18 and older. Participants must submit their artwork to the city’s digital entry form, which can be found by clicking or tapping here. Submissions are due by Oct. 1, 2026.

Artists will be asked to provide information about their creation, what recycled materials they used, and add photos of their completed artwork. Winners will be told on Oct. 2, 2026, and will get a pair of weekend passes to the 2026 Kentuck Festival of Arts, which takes place Oct. 17-18, a coupon for a free t-shirt and a chance for artwork to be displayed at the festival.

Contest and guideline submissions can also be found by clicking or tapping here.

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