Recycling is usually a good idea, but Amarildo Silva, an artist, has a better idea for old and ignored items: convert them into works of art. And, in this case, it was more than just a work of art; it would also aid the scores of stray animals on the streets.
The artist from Campina Grande, Brazil, is met with stray animals on the streets every day. It’s especially severe in this town, where there are over five times as many stray animals as homeless people. This 23-year-old man vowed he would do anything he could to help.
One day, he had the amazing idea to convert the old tires into something functional and beneficial for the city while also looking good and brightening up the streets. He came up with the concept after noticing how the animals would curl up in the used tires at night. The artist then began collecting dozens of tires from around town and landfills for his big and heartwarming creation.
He took a chance and believed that his artistic vision and inventiveness would allow him to be self-employed one day, and it worked. In reality, the idea of the tires helped his business significantly. Silva is proud of the tire initiative since it not only benefits the homeless dogs in his neighborhood, but it is also beneficial to the environment by reducing garbage. If not recycled, old tires might take decades to degrade.
Of course, Silva strives to make each tire bed unique and lovely. They’re brightly colored, full of special touches, painted in a variety of forms, and sometimes he even adds the pet’s name. He tops it up with a plush cushion and matching pillow to ensure the animals’ comfort.
Silva sold the first six of these tires to coworkers at the supermarket he was working in. It inspired him to ditch his job and pursue his dream and passion to create art full-time.
Aside from making beds, he also started making furniture that looks colorful, is sustainable and good for the environment.