In The News – Trash to Treasure returns: Local students transform bear boxes into public art in year two of eco-inspired project
June 27, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/27/2025, Staff Report
Now in its second year, Trash to Treasure returned with a creative new twist: turning Incline Village’s bear boxes into vibrant canvases that celebrate art, environmental stewardship, and community spirit. Spearheaded by Incline Middle School teacher Ginny Holmes, local artist Alison Lee and in collaboration with the Incline Education Fund (IEF), the project aims to create public art that makes an impact.
This year, the initiative expanded to design a mural arts project, where students combined environmental research with creative expression to design murals on bear boxes throughout Incline Village. Collaborating closely with the Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID), students included interpretive signage to accompany each mural to educate the public about local ecological issues and promote responsible recreation around Lake Tahoe. As part of the process, students presented their concepts to a panel of IVGID staff, gaining real-world experience in communication, design approval, and civic engagement.
Photos provided by Incline Education Fund
