About 2026 Earth Day

We’re trying something a little new this year and expanding our reach, and I’m really glad to be able to invite you into it.

This Earth Day—Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 9–11am—we’ll be gathering at Empire Recycling (behind Babe’s, 54 N. Genesee Street, Utica) for what is, quite honestly, a rare kind of access. Empire is one of the largest recycling centers in Upstate New York, and it’s a place that—if you let it—can spark all kinds of unexpected ideas and directions.

This is invite-only, and you’re receiving this because of the strength of your work. We’ve invited more artists than we can ultimately accommodate, so if you’re interested and available, please respond as soon as you can—we’ll follow up shortly to confirm participation on a first-responded, first-accepted basis.

Please note that the date and time are fixed, and we aren’t able to accommodate exceptions—so only respond if you’re certain you can attend during this window.

The premise is simple: whatever you “harvest” from the yard (up to $100 in materials) will be transformed into an auction-worthy piece for Sculpture Space’s annual CHAIRity Art Auction this fall. The auction is a key fundraiser supporting our residency program—now approaching its 50th year—and these works tend to generate real excitement, often creating meaningful connections between artists and local businesses and collectors.

We’ll have a basic pricing guide on site (materials are valued on a point system), and everything will be weighed and tallied at the end of your time in the yard.

A few important notes:

• Materials taken should be used solely for the CHAIRity Auction piece (not for personal use or resale)

• Any unused material can remain with Sculpture Space for program use or be returned to Empire

• Hard hats and safety glasses are required while on site (we’ll have them available if you don’t have your own)

• Please wear durable clothing and appropriate footwear (steel-toe recommended)

• Empire (and possibly local media) may document the event with photos or interviews

• For those traveling from a distance, we unfortunately aren’t able to provide accommodations

• The CHAIRity Art Auction is September 18, and completed work will be needed no later than Monday, August 31

More than anything, this is about access, discovery, and making something meaningful from what’s already in the world. We’d be lucky to have you involved.

Please reply HERE to confirm your interest and availability.