If you’ve ever walked through the streets of Oakland, you’ve probably noticed the unusual trash cans decorated with bright mosaics. They can be found at busy intersections, in parks, at bus stops, and near shops. These street objects have quickly become part of the city’s infrastructure. They are true works of art, created by local residents, volunteers, and artists who decided to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.
Today, there are more than sixty mosaic trash cans throughout the city. Their appearance is the result of a movement to improve the urban environment, in which the Keep Oakland Beautiful program participates. Thanks to small grants and the participation of volunteers, the project has gone far beyond its original idea and continues to evolve.
How it Started
The history of mosaic trash cans in Oakland began in 2010. At that time, in the eastern part of the city, in the Allendale Park area, activists decided to decorate the public space.
The idea proved so popular that it soon spread to other areas. Artists Roberto Costa and Daoud Abdullah were among the first to take up the project. They designed the first mosaics that appeared on High Street, 35th Avenue, Seminary Avenue, Foothill Boulevard, Grand Avenue, and Telegraph.
Beverly Shalom, Karen Difrumolo, and Linda Vogel later joined them. Each of these artists brought something unique to the cityscape: some used warm colors and images of nature, while others focused on abstraction and the play of light.
Daoud Abdulla’s contribution deserves special attention. In an interview with a newspaper, he said:
“I have participated in many city clean-up projects, and I liked the idea of making a trash can so beautiful that it would be impossible not to notice it.”
Most of his works can be seen in the eastern part of the city. The themes he raises are love, peace, and community.
How Mosaic Trash Cans Are Made
The technique of decorating trash cans with mosaics is not as complicated as it may seem. But it requires patience, precision, and inspiration. Here’s
how it works:
- First, the surface of the trash can is prepared: it is washed, cleaned, and covered with primer.
- Then the artist or team chooses the theme and color scheme for the future mosaic.
- The elements (most often broken tiles or glass) are selected and cut into the desired shapes.
- The pieces are attached to the surface with glue or cement.
- When everything is dry, grout is applied to fix the mosaic and give it a finished look
Many of the bins were made in special workshops that were open to anyone who wanted to participate. Roberto Costa personally taught neighborhood communities mosaic techniques, showing them how to choose colors and work with materials. As a result, dozens of bins were decorated by the residents themselves. This became a way to beautify the streets and an opportunity for communication, creativity, and shared care for the city.
Wrapping Up
Street art is often perceived as something fleeting, but the mosaic bins in Oakland have proven otherwise. They have become part of the urban landscape and everyday life. They show that even such utilitarian objects can be beautiful. Most importantly, they demonstrate that it is possible to transform the environment through the efforts of ordinary people.
The initiative also helps remind people of the importance of cleanliness and respect for public spaces. When trash is thrown into a trash can that looks like a work of art, it sets a different tone. And many people have noticed that there is less trash around the mosaic trash cans than around regular ones.