(Photo: Ocean Sole Africa)

Kenyans create colorful treasures from old flip-flops

A unique shop in Nairobi, Kenya turns trash into treasure using reclaimed trash to create works of art. Ocean Sole Africa operates out of Nairobi and is on the mission to #BeatPollution.

In 2018, approximately 750,000 flip-flops were upcycled as material for local artists. The flip-flops are collected through ocean cleaning efforts and are thoroughly washed before being upcycled as crafting material.

Once the flip-flops are cleaned, they are pressed into blocks that can be carved and sanded to define the texture of the sculpture. Once the base sculpture is complete, they add smaller details the bring the artworks to life for a finished product.

Our chat Danny Woodly on #endangered species day inspired us to create something special. What other endangered species would you like to see us create?#oceansoleafrica #endangeredspeciesday #pangolin #nationalday #raiseawareness #upcycledart #reducewaste #beachcleanup pic.twitter.com/ZuIrE8jE1J

— Ocean Sole Africa (@OceanSole1) June 1, 2020

These pieces of art celebrate animals including, lions, rhinos, gorillas, dinosaurs, elephants, kangaroos, and much more. The artworks feature a unique array of colors when they use blocks with a variety of flip-flop colors.

They also offer other items aside from art including clocks, keychains, and more while providing employment to 100 low-income Kenyan citizens. Ocean Sole Africa also gives back to the local community, committing 10-15% of revenue for education and beach cleanup efforts.