Managing the Scrap Metal Situation in the Sekondi Takoradi Municipality – The Artist’s Take

The focus of the study was to assess the scrap metal situation and the perceived environmental hazards in the Sekondi/Takoradi metropolis, investigate management systems available and how the visual artist can play functional roles in such systems. The study commenced with the assessment of the scrap metal situation and possible environmental hazards in the Sekondi/Takoradi metropolis and proceeded with an investigation into its use alternative materials for Visual Art. The outcome unearthed irregularities and disparities in the activities of scrap metal dealer in whose hands most scrap metal dealings mainly fall. The mostly illegal, irregular and uncontrolled nature of their trade deepens societal woes as it results in theft, environmental degradation and pose health hazards. Whilst advocating for a strong regulatory body for scrap metal management, the study made recommendations for more creative ways of dealing with the scrap metal situation in the metropolis rather than leaving it solely in the hands of metal traders, one of which is turning the scraps into esthetically pleasant artifacts. It was therefore recommended that Visual Art educators and practitioners should develop interest in and encourage the collection and use of scrap metals as alternative materials for art creation and innovations.

 Keywords: scraps, metal, art, environment, sanitation