Travel Feature

 

TRASH INTO 

TREASURE

Would you imagine how trash has a hidden gem that defies    conventional perceptions of art and beauty?

In the heart of Aklan, amidst the picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, there lies a remarkable initiative that is transforming the way we perceive waste.

The Basura Garden of Balete, a small town located along Felipe Oquendo St., Barangay Poblacion, is a testament to the power of community-driven environmental conservation. 

What was once a dumping ground for discarded items has now blossomed into a lush garden, showcasing the potential of recycling, creativity, and community spirit.

The Birth of Basura Garden

Basura Garden

The Basura Garden begins with a group of passionate individuals who decided to take matters into their own hands. Faced with the alarming rise in plastic pollution and its adverse effects on the environment, since Balete is very prone to flooding, they embarked on a mission to create awareness and inspire change within their community.

Within the garden’s boundaries, these seemingly insignificant objects—which were originally designated for landfills—find new life.

A simple stone becomes a canvas, portraying realities that are often overlooked, and a damaged shoe transforms into an exquisite flower container. These creations, displayed amidst the lush greenery, serve a higher purpose: to inspire.

The Lachica family, a blend of seasoned, multi-awarded artists and budding talents,

has woven together a tapestry of creativity within the Basura Garden. Their combined artistic spirit breathes life into the discarded, urging visitors to see beauty in materials often taken for granted.

Walking through the garden, visitors are not only mesmerized by the aesthetic appeal but also educated about the importance of recycling and upcycling in preserving our environment. Each piece tells a story, not just of the artist’s skill but also of the resilience of the human spirit.

“Ro atong surroundings hay kanami gid ngani kapin kung perming malimpyo ag do Basura Garden it Balete hay isaea gid ngani sa ang napabugae dahil gapakita gid imaw it maayad ayad nga inspiration because we make beautiful art sa gaom natong waste material eang,” Vice Governor Patrick Lachica emphasized.

Preserving heritage and culture

Beyond its role as an art haven, Basura Garden stands as a custodian of Balete’s rich heritage and culture. Through the lens of art, the garden preserves the town’s eco-cultural legacy, encouraging visitors to engage with the narratives woven into each creation.

The garden serves as a canvas where nature and human ingenuity harmonize, reminding us of the profound impact we can make by reimagining our relationship with the environment.

As you stroll through the garden, you’ll find yourself captivated by sculptures, paintings, and installations that challenge your perception of art. Old tires serve as colorful planters, plastic bottles find new life as hanging gardens, and scrap metal is transformed into quirky sculptures.

Basura Garden is not just a place to admire art; it’s a space that fosters a deep connection with the community, reminding us of the importance of cherishing our roots.

A Call to Action

As you step out of Basura Garden, you carry with you more than just memories of stunning artwork.

You carry a message—a call to action. The garden serves as a gentle reminder that our choices matter and that even in the discarded and neglected, there is potential for beauty and transformation. It encourages us to reconsider our approach to waste, inspiring us to think creatively and sustainably.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Basura Garden project is its emphasis on community engagement. Residents, especially children, actively participate in workshops and activities that teach them about environmental conservation. Through hands-on experiences, they learn the art of repurposing waste materials, instilling a sense of pride and responsibility in preserving their surroundings.

In the heart of Balete, where trash meets art, the Basura Garden stands as a resource of inspiration. It invites us to embrace the beauty of imperfection, to see the world through a different lens, and to recognize that within every piece of discarded material, there lies a story waiting to be told.

So, the next time you pass by Felipe Oquendo St., make sure to wander into Basura Garden, where trash transforms into treasure and timeless art where creativity knows no limits.