The Locker
This upcycling project began with a discarded locker door from my high school’s renovation and evolved into an art piece that was later featured in Textile Magazine. The concept was to repurpose existing materials to create something unique and original, transforming a standard object into a canvas for artistic expression.
The completed artwork, inspired by Persian art motifs, is the result of nearly two months of intensive sketching, planning, painting, and refining. Throughout this creative journey, I explored various painting techniques and learned a great deal about working with unconventional materials. Painting on a metal surface presented distinct challenges; for instance, I discovered that Acrylique brand paint requires at least three coats to properly adhere to the metal locker door.
The inspiration for this piece originated from a sweater I painted with a similar design over the summer. This project provided an opportunity to delve into Persian art, a major influence on Islamic art and renowned for its intricate patterns and use in architectural decoration. Persian art served as a creative foundation, appearing not only on grand structures but also on everyday objects like shoes and murals. Influenced by artist Melika Hashemi’s painted Reebok shoes, I sought to blend traditional Persian designs with a modern medium (see process photos below). Given the constraints of a 90-minute class period and the scale of the project, the process took longer than expected, spanning a total of eight months from research and preparation to the final brushstroke. My initial inspiration was a sidewalk mural near the Downtown Kitchener Farmers Market, whose sophisticated patterns and vibrant colors captivated me.
The Magazine
The Process
The initial stage of the project was dedicated to in-depth research into Persian art and culture, focusing on its intricate patterns and historical significance. This exploration included studying traditional miniature patterns often found in Persian architecture, particularly on domes and iwans (see process photos 4 & 5). With this knowledge, I began the meticulous process of transforming the locker door into a suitable canvas, carefully selecting materials that would best suit the medium. Through experimentation with different types of paint—acrylic, watercolor, and gouache—I determined that acrylic paint offered the optimal adhesion and vibrancy needed for a metal surface.
Preparing the door involved multiple steps, including sanding to create a smooth base and priming to ensure a consistent application surface. I then developed a series of detailed sketches to plan the composition, carefully considering the placement and scale of each pattern to enhance visual impact. The painting phase required a methodical approach, layering multiple coats to achieve depth and richness in color while maintaining precision in the intricate designs.
The entire process was a test of patience, attention to detail, and adaptability, culminating in a finished piece that was not only displayed at my high school but also served as a testament to the seamless fusion of traditional art forms and innovative upcycling. This project exemplifies a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and modern creativity, showcasing an ability to innovate with available resources and a deep understanding of artistic techniques.
