Fairfield, CA - Students from Rodriguez High School's Tennies and T's Club, National Arts Honor Society, are excited to reveal their latest creation, "Rodrigo," a mascot made entirely from recycled materials. This one-of-a-kind sculpture will debut at the Earth Art Walk in Suisun this weekend, showcasing the students' artistic talents and commitment to sustainability.
"Rodrigo" is a remarkable work of art crafted from recycled items like aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and plywood. His hair, made from hand-cut and heat-twisted strands of plastic, comprises 350 strands sourced from plastic bottles. The outer body of "Rodrigo" consists of 500 hand-cut, sanded, and glued aluminum cans, forming a striking and eco-friendly sculpture.
The internal structure of "Rodrigo" is equally impressive, incorporating leftover plumber's pipe, recycled chicken wire, and 375 plastic water bottles. These elements come together to create a sturdy framework that supports the mascot's distinctive appearance. The base of the sculpture, crafted from plywood and adorned with approximately 1000 plastic water bottle caps, adds a finishing touch to the artwork.
The journey of "Rodrigo" began on Earth Day 2020, following the theft of the school's original mascot during the COVID-19 lockdown. In response to this incident, the Tennies & T's club embarked on a mission to create a new mascot using recycled materials. Over the course of four years, students dedicated themselves to bringing "Rodrigo" to life, demonstrating resilience, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability.
According to Ms. Lynn Larsen, Club Advisor for the Tennies & T's Club, "Rodrigo is a symbol of school spirit. It has taken Tennies & T's club students 4 years to complete this project and I am so proud of the student’s hard work and dedication!"
"Rodrigo" will be showcased at the Earth Art Walk in Suisun at the Joseph Nelson Community Center. The unveiling reception will take place on April 20, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, offering attendees the opportunity to admire the artwork and celebrate the students' achievements.