We’ve all heard the warnings: Don’t pour grease down the drain… don’t put batteries in the trash… But where do these items really belong? The Arlington Art Truck’s fall installation, “Let It FLOW!” by artist Scott Pennington, turns a classic bean bag toss into an educational experience, showing you the right way to dispose of common household waste.
This interactive art piece mimics carnival games, inviting participants to toss bean bags with images of cotton swabs, food scraps, cat litter, cigarette butts, “flushable” wipes, dental floss and more into the appropriate disposal bin — whether it’s the sink, toilet, trash can or food scraps collection bin.
Designed for two to three players, this activity teaches participants how household waste can affect Arlington’s wastewater systems and how they can help prevent clogs and damage.
The Water Pollution Control Plant, the project’s community partner, will have representatives at Arlington Art Truck locations to educate residents on protecting our wastewater infrastructure and environment. They will also discuss upcoming plant upgrades and inform residents about food scrap drop-off sites, including 4300 29th Street South, Columbia Pike Farmer’s Market, and seven new on-street collection points for multi-family residents.
Launched in 2018 with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Arlington Art Truck was a finalist for Americans for the Arts’ 2019 Gard Award for Arts and Community Life. This innovative mobile art venue blurs the line between participant and presenter, featuring digital and traditional creative tools and hosting three artists-in-residence from April through November.
About the Artist: Scott Pennington is a Baltimore-based artist known for his large-scale participatory installations and sculptural assemblages. With a background in furniture and cabinetmaking, Pennington crafts intricate, vibrant works that engage diverse audiences and enliven public spaces. His art often explores themes of labor, consumer culture, and the pursuit of simple pleasures, creating connections that are both nostalgic and thought-provoking.
About the Community Partner: The Water Pollution Control Plant, located in South Arlington, treats 23 million gallons of wastewater daily from local residences and businesses. Its mission is to process wastewater safely and efficiently, protecting the environment, especially the Four-Mile Run, the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. Future upgrades will focus on enhancing solids handling, resource recovery, and reducing Arlington’s reliance on fossil fuels.
“Let It FLOW!” debuted at the Arlington County Fair earlier this month and runs through October 26, 2024. Upcoming Arlington Art Truck activations include:
- Rosslyn Jazz Fest: Saturday, September 7, 1-7 p.m., Gateway Park (1300 Langston Boulevard)
- Rock ‘n’ Recycle: Saturday, September 14, 1 p.m., Trades Center (4300 29th Street South)
For the full Arlington Art Truck schedule, visit the Arlington Art Truck website.
