Plastic Angels Bali: Art and advocacy to combat the shocking destruction of the No.1 tourist island
Plastic Angels Bali is a unique art and advocacy project founded in 2021 by French artist Mickaël Couturier. Based in Bali, the project raises awareness about two pressing issues: plastic pollution and poverty, particularly among children living near the Suwung landfill, Bali’s largest trash dump. Couturier collaborates with local and international artists to transform discarded plastic waste into striking works of art that inspire change.
The Mission and Vision Behind Plastic Angels Bali
Plastic Angels Bali is about bridging art and activism. Bali faces significant challenges with plastic pollution, as vast amounts of waste wash up on its shores and accumulate in rivers and landfills. Plastic Angels harnesses art to tackle this environmental crisis while uplifting Bali’s trash picker communities. The vision is twofold: promote sustainable practices that reduce plastic waste and support the children in the Suwung landfill community.
By repurposing plastic waste, Plastic Angels Bali tackles pollution and generates funds for programs that benefit these children. The artworks are symbolic of resilience and act as a resource to drive change. Funds from art sales support charities that provide essentials like food, water, and healthcare for children in need.
About the Founder: Mickaël Couturier
Mickaël Couturier has long used art as a catalyst for social good. Before founding Plastic Angels Bali, he worked on projects blending art with community activism, focusing on environmental themes. His background and commitment to sustainability shaped his vision for Plastic Angels, where he combines aesthetic appeal with storytelling. Each piece tells the stories of children in the community, portraying hope and resilience, and helps fund their future through art.
Collaborations and Creative Process
Plastic Angels Bali collaborates with various artists who share Couturier’s commitment. Notable collaborators include Liina Klauss, a German environmental artist, and Quint, an Indonesian artist focused on sustainable art. Together, they create installations and sculptures using materials like flip-flops, plastic bottles, and beach trash.
The process is rooted in the community, with children from Suwung often participating. Each artwork becomes a collective effort, providing a therapeutic and empowering experience for the children while advocating for their future.
The Art of Giving: Events and Exhibitions
Plastic Angels Bali organizes events and exhibitions to raise funds and awareness. A notable event was the Art of Giving exhibition at Alila Seminyak, displaying pieces made from reclaimed beach trash. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase artworks, with proceeds going directly toward supporting Suwung’s children.
These exhibitions serve as both educational tools about Bali’s plastic waste problem and as a means to generate funds for community support. Couturier uses these events to highlight the importance of sustainability and community involvement.
Impact on the Suwung Landfill Community
The children of Suwung face hardships, including lack of access to basic necessities. Plastic Angels Bali collaborates with the Ragam Foundation and Bali Life Foundation to provide daily meals, educational support, medical care, and sanitation for these children, improving their quality of life and hope for a brighter future.
How You Can Get Involved: Supporting Plastic Angels Bali
- Purchase Art: Buying artwork from Plastic Angels Bali helps fund vital programs. Each piece is a unique addition to your home and a reminder of your role in supporting these children and reducing plastic waste.
- Donate: Donations are welcome through Plastic Angels’ official channels. Contributions go toward essential resources like food, healthcare, and education for the children.
- Volunteer: If you’re in Bali, consider volunteering with Plastic Angels or their partner organizations, helping with organizing events, conducting workshops, or raising awareness.
- Spread the Word: Raise awareness by sharing Plastic Angels’ story on social media. Amplifying their mission can inspire more people to support the cause and promote sustainable practices in Bali.
For more information or to support Plastic Angels Bali, visit their official website. By joining this movement, you’re helping build a brighter future for Bali’s children and supporting the fight against plastic pollution.
A Call to Action: Make a Difference with Plastic Angels
Plastic AngelsBali embodies the power of art and community to create change. Founded by Mickaël Couturier, this inspiring initiative transforms waste into impactful art, raising funds to support children in need and raise awareness about Bali’s environmental challenges. Support Plastic Angels Bali today, and become part of a movement that uses creativity and compassion to make a difference.
