Unlocking innovation with engine parts
KELVIN – An annual innovation initiative in Kelvin showed the various ways engine parts can be used for art, decoration and for everyday household ornaments.
The Cummins Dream Machine initiative is hosted annually by Cummins, an international company that manufactures, distributes and services engine technologies.
Managing director of Cummins Southern Africa, Schuyla Goodson Bell, explained that the premise of the initiative was that engine parts separated for waste and recycling could be used to educate others about recycling, and create jobs for local crafters and artisans.
Guests and judges were invited to view the creations which have a strong industrial aesthetic. The creations were made by a team of the Master Rebuild Centre in Kelvin who were challenged to think about how engine parts could be put to good use.
Goodson Bell also said the team of dedicated employees were now developing formal protocols to identify, collect and clean specific engine parts that previously would have been recycled or scrapped.
“The Cummins Dream Machine is advancing corporate responsibility efforts to help better the communities where we live and work,” added Goodson Bell.
“Importantly, it also makes our local artists, crafters and artisans’ dreams a reality, which is really exciting.”
Participating in the judging of the competition included Raina Washington, wife of the American ambassador Patrick Gaspard; Masana Chikeka, of the Department of Arts and Culture; Eugenie Drake, founder of Piece; and Nomvula Mashoai-Cook, executive director of Mpumalanga Traditional Art Market.
“Imagine candle holders, gasket wind chimes, gear bookends, soft furnishings decorated with unique designs made from nuts, bolts and washers, and jewellery and so much more,” said Goodson Bell.
She said the initiative included the three focus areas for the company’s corporate responsibility activities, namely education, environment and social justice.
Goodson Bell explained that the company envisioned the initiative making a positive difference to the environment, and in the communities where people live and work, while giving artists and crafters from less privileged communities the opportunity to increase their income-earning capacity and market reach.
Details: www.cummins.com
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