Upcycled Art Creativity Meets Sustainability

JD Swiger, a Gulf Shores-based artist, has redefined his creative process to merge art with environmental advocacy. Through his work at Swiger Studio Art Gallery, established in 2017, Swiger transforms discarded materials into thought-provoking works of upcycled art that highlight the pressing issue of plastic pollution and sustainability.
Upcycled art takes materials typically considered waste—like plastic bags, Styrofoam, and cigarette filters—and repurposes them into creative, meaningful expressions. By giving trash a second life, upcycled art draws attention to the environmental impact of our consumption habits. Swiger’s creations include two-dimensional compositions made from cigarette filters and life-sized sculptures like hammerhead sharks coated in colorful plastic debris. Each piece tells a story of our unconscious actions with waste and challenges viewers to consider more eco-friendly choices.
With a bachelor’s degree in digital art from Huntingdon College, Swiger’s early portfolio focused on large-scale mixed-media collages. However, his artistic direction shifted in 2019 when he started collecting litter from daily beach walks along the Gulf Coast. Sorting the items by color and texture in his studio, he discovered a new medium to define his work.
“The subject of plastic pollution has brought us to a time in history where we are forced to stop unconsciously polluting the planet with plastic,” he explains, “and consciously make different choices for our own good.” His art stands as a visual reminder of different choices we must embrace for the health of our planet.
Swiger’s impact extends beyond the gallery. He has painted more than 40 murals for local businesses, contributing to the beautification of Gulf Shores while promoting sustainability. He also speaks at local high schools, encouraging students to explore art entrepreneurship and environmentally conscious practices.
In addition to upcycled art and murals, Swiger is a multifaceted artist specializing in videography, photography, drone photography, graphic design, and fine art. His talents also extend into music production, influenced by his younger brother, Joseph, who operates a Swiger Studio location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. “Joseph is a professional music engineer with roots in the Baton Rouge hip hop industry,” Swiger shares. “He’s earned three Billboard Hot 100 plaques and has been in business for nine years.”
Swiger’s next event is on April 20 at David’s Gallery in Gulf Shores. Visitors are encouraged to explore his studio, open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to experience the transformative power of upcycled art.
For more information, contact JD Swiger at 251-609-1162, [email protected] or visit SwigerStudio.com.