My work is inspired by the use of recycled materials since 1988. The purpose is to raise awareness about the costs of our disposable, materialistic, wasteful society. I am also inspired by the cultural value revealed by the tins/trash that people throw away.

People always ask where I get my tin cans. Most of my cans came from my sister and father that go to yard sales, and flea markets on the East Coast. Occasionally, I find tins myself at local Salvation Army type places or just stopping at a Estate Sale in my neighborhood.

The most entertaining and delightful way I get tins is when people mail me a box of tins. They may have one box or ten boxes. Sometimes, they were there mother's cookie tins or a "pushke" box that has some emotional attachment or nostalgic story. They don't want to throw away the tin cans, but they can't keep them either.

All the tins are flattened and storied on shelves by color, pattern or theme. Though I have help opening the tins, I am the only one that puts them away so I can make a mental note of their location. View my studio at: http://harriete-estel-berman.info/studio/visit-studio-Harriete-Estel-Berman.html

My materials - post consumer recycled tin cans - are just the beginning of the concepts behind my work. Each object has a story and deeper social commentary.