Culture

Athens Artist Transforms Vintage Refrigerator Into Art

Posted on: Monday, November 3, 2014

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As a way to educate customers about its Appliance Recycling Program, AEP Ohio, a unit of American Electric Power, has selected Athens artist Teresa Sager to turn an inefficient refrigerator into a work of art.

The AEP Ohio Appliance Recycling Program is part of the company’s initiative to help customers use less energy, decrease energy costs, conserve natural resources and protect the environment.

AEP Ohio customers can earn a $50 rebate when they schedule their inefficient refrigerator or freezer to be recycled. AEP Ohio will pick up the appliance free of charge and haul it away.

The transformed refrigerator made its first appearance at Nelsonville’s Starbrick Cooperative Gallery during October’s Final Friday on the Square, and will continue to be on display through late November.

“I loved the process of painting this refrigerator. It was amazing to see it evolve into something that will encourage others to recycle now, and in the future,” said Sager. “It will be difficult to look at this 1937 refrigerator and not smile.”

Sager has been creating art all of her life. She specializes in mixed media and encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting. By using a mixture of spray paint, acrylics, duct tape, collectible memorabilia and handmade paper, Sager transformed the refrigerator into a time capsule.

Viewers will be encouraged to bring items to place in the refrigerator through late November.

Recycling an old refrigerator or freezer can save up to $150 a year in energy costs, and helps protect the environment, according to AEP Ohio.