In the bustling streets of Lisbon, Portugal, a new kind of art has emerged—an art form that is not only visually captivating but also carries a powerful message. Born in 1987, Artur Bordalo, better known as Bordalo II, has made a name for himself in the contemporary art world by using something most of us discard without a second thought: garbage. Through his ingenious use of street trash, Bordalo II creates stunning sculptures of animals, serving as both a visual feast and a poignant reminder of the environmental degradation plaguing our planet.
The Making of Bordalo II
Artur Bordalo’s journey into the world of art was heavily influenced by his grandfather, the renowned Portuguese painter Real Bordalo. From a young age, Bordalo II was immersed in the creative world, learning the basics of drawing and painting. However, as he grew older, he began to see the world differently. The rampant pollution and environmental issues he observed around him ignited a passion for activism, which he merged with his artistic talents.
In the early stages of his career, Bordalo II experimented with various mediums, but it wasn’t until he started using trash as his primary material that he truly found his niche. By repurposing discarded items such as old tires, metal scraps, and plastic waste, Bordalo II has managed to create large-scale sculptures that are as awe-inspiring as they are thought-provoking.
In the early stages of his career, Bordalo II experimented with various mediums, but it wasn’t until he started using trash as his primary material that he truly found his niche. By repurposing discarded items such as old tires, metal scraps, and plastic waste, Bordalo II has managed to create large-scale sculptures that are as awe-inspiring as they are thought-provoking.
I was first introduced to Bordalo's art through two friends when we visited the Museu Coleção Berardo located at Praça do Império, 1449-003 Lisboa (the Belem train station is the closest). You'll discover this raccoon if you visit the gardens of the museum.
The Art of Trash
Bordalo II’s work is often referred to as “trash art,” a term that perfectly encapsulates the essence of his creations. However, to simply call it “trash art” would be to overlook the sheer creativity and craftsmanship that goes into each piece. These are not just random assemblages of junk; they are carefully constructed, detailed sculptures that capture the beauty and fragility of the animal kingdom.
Raposa located at Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-221 Lisboa, Portugal near to TimeOut Market and Cais do Sodre
The process begins with collecting materials—an act that in itself is a form of activism. Bordalo II scours junkyards, landfills, and the streets of Lisbon for materials that would otherwise contribute to environmental pollution. He then meticulously selects pieces that will form the basis of his sculptures, transforming what was once considered worthless into something of value.
Fruit Bat located at R. do Cap. Filipe de Sousa 84 2500, Caldas da Rainha, Portugal
One of the most striking aspects of Bordalo II’s work is his ability to breathe life into inanimate objects. A pile of rusted metal can become the feathers of a bird, a discarded car part might form the body of a fox, and broken plastic toys could serve as the eyes of a fish. The end result is a breathtaking fusion of art and message—a stark reminder of the impact human waste has on the natural world.
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Iberian Lynx located at Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-221 Lisboa, Portugal in Parque das Nações
A Call to Action
While Bordalo II’s sculptures are undoubtedly beautiful, they are also deeply unsettling. The animals he creates are often depicted in poses that highlight their vulnerability—an eagle with wings outstretched as if in flight, but weighed down by the heavy metal that forms its body; a sea turtle, its shell made from discarded plastic, struggling to swim. These images are a powerful metaphor for the way pollution is suffocating our planet’s wildlife.
Garça located at R. de Santo António 25 2400 Leiria, Portugal
Bordalo II’s work is a call to action, urging us to reconsider our relationship with the environment. Through his art, he highlights the dire consequences of our throwaway culture and the urgent need to protect endangered species. Each sculpture serves as a visual reminder that the garbage we produce does not simply disappear; it has a lasting impact on the world around us.
Bumblebee located at R. Rodrigues de Faria, 1300-501 Lisboa, Portugal in LX Factory
Art that Speaks Volumes
What makes Bordalo II’s work so compelling is the way it challenges our perceptions of value and waste. In a society where consumerism reigns supreme, and the latest gadgets and fashions are quickly replaced with new ones, Bordalo II’s art forces us to confront the consequences of our actions. By turning trash into treasure, he shows us that there is beauty in what we discard and that even the most mundane objects can be transformed into something extraordinary.
Half Rabbit located at R. de Santa M.nha 5-39, 4400-266 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
But beyond its aesthetic appeal, Bordalo II’s art carries a message that resonates on a deeper level. It speaks to the need for change, for a shift in the way we think about consumption, waste, and the environment. His sculptures are not just a critique of the present; they are a vision of what the future could be if we continue on our current path.
Crab located inside Bastardo Restaurant at Rua da Betesga, 1100-090 Lisboa, Portugal
Artur Bordalo II is not just an artist; he is a visionary, using his talent to inspire change and raise awareness about some of the most pressing issues of our time. His work is a testament to the power of art to not only reflect the world around us but also to challenge it. By transforming trash into stunning, inventive sculptures, Bordalo II has created a body of work that is as impactful as it is beautiful—a true example of how art can make a difference in the world
Half Owl located at Coimbra University, near Department of Architecture.
Half Gorilla located at Rua do Brasil 7, 3000 Coimbra, Portugal
In a world where pollution and environmental degradation are ever-increasing threats, Bordalo II’s art serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that it is never too late to change our ways and protect the planet for future generations.
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