Nigerian artist Caroline Useh is redefining the concept of waste by transforming discarded leather watch straps into captivating works of art. Her innovative approach not only yields visually striking creations but also champions the growing movement towards sustainability in the country.
Footage from Lagos captured Useh meticulously collecting damaged watch straps, which are often rendered unsellable due to the city's high humidity and water exposure. She then undertakes a careful process of cleaning and drying these straps before intricately attaching the cut leather pieces onto canvases, giving them a vibrant new life as unique artworks.
"I'm contributing to society, Useh explained. "First, through environmental sustainability, by repurposing this material. This has allowed us to create beautiful artworks, effectively addressing an environmental challenge."
The issue of damaged leather watch straps is a common one for local vendors. Adebayo Omotayo, a watch seller in Lagos, confirmed that water damage frequently compromises the integrity of leather products. "I'm yet to see any goods being sold that don't have damage, Omotayo stated. "Water does damage leather works, soaking into them, thus making them weak. Once we get such damaged leather straps, we pack them and sell them to some people who come for them." This highlights the significant volume of discarded straps that Useh is intercepting and transforming.
Useh's work is part of a broader trend in Nigeria, where artists are increasingly integrating recycled materials into their creations. This reflects a growing national commitment to sustainable practices. Initiatives like the Waste Museum in Ibadan, which receives support from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment, are actively promoting creative reuse and environmental awareness through seminars and events. Caroline Useh's artistry stands as a powerful example of how creative vision can align with environmental responsibility, turning what was once considered trash into treasure. The story is from Viory.