November 8, 2025
This fall, the Calgary MCC Thrift Shop hosted its inaugural art contest—a vibrant celebration of creativity, sustainability, and community spirit. From October 6 to 11, 2025, local artists of all ages and backgrounds were invited to create original artworks using thrifted materials sourced from the shop.
The result was a stunning array of submissions that transformed secondhand treasures into meaningful expressions of art. Each piece told a unique story. Some artists re-imagined classical paintings, others crafted jewelry from vintage beads, and some explored themes of nature, identity, and joy. The contest culminated in public voting on Instagram, with the winning artist receiving a $300 gift card and the honor of having their work featured across MCC Thrift’s platforms.
The winning piece—a reinterpretation of Saint Mary Magdalene by Guido Reni—was a bold fusion of classical art and pop-inspired ornamentation. The artist, a student at AUArts, used thrifted toys, charms, and a vintage frame to challenge the divide between “high” and “low” art. Their work questioned cultural hierarchies and celebrated visual languages often dismissed as sentimental or excessive.“By merging classical painting with decorative aesthetics,” they shared, “I aim to challenge those hierarchies and highlight that softness, decoration, and cuteness—visual languages often tied to femininity or youth—can also carry depth and meaning.” Their reflections on upcycling echoed MCC’s values: “Upcycling transforms what already exists into something new and meaningful. It mirrors MCC’s work in building stronger, more sustainable communities.”
Honouring All Artists: Diverse Voices, Shared Purpose
While only one winner was chosen, every submission added richness to the contest. Destiny Baxter, a jewelry artist, created keychains and zipper charms using thrifted materials. Her work was inspired by childhood joy and the belief that bright colors and playful designs help us reconnect with our inner child. “In today’s age of extreme overconsumption,” Destiny said, “there’s no need for brand new craft supplies. Everything you need to create beautiful artwork can be found at a thrift store.”
Another standout piece, Paws and Reflect, featured two bears—one aggressive, one contemplative—set against a mosaic of Russian stamps. The artist used this imagery to explore the environmental consequences of overconsumption and the erasure of nature through modern consumer habits. “Upcycling and art are gateways to opportunity,” they shared. “They promote conscious consumption and redefine what we value.”
And finally, Reynaldo Cruz submitted a painting of fruits, celebrating health and simplicity. “Joining this contest is my proud way of sharing my talent in support of MCC’s international charitable cause through art,” he said. “For me, sharing is truly a blessing.”
Art as a Force for Good
This contest was more than a showcase of talent—it was a testament to the power of creativity, community, and compassion. Through upcycled materials and heartfelt expression, artists reminded us that beauty can be found in the overlooked, and that art can be a tool for healing, reflection, and change.
MCC’s mission of global relief, peacebuilding, and sustainability was reflected in every brushstroke, bead, and frame. By turning secondhand items into works of art, participants embodied the values of stewardship, generosity, and transformation.
As we look ahead, the Calgary MCC Thrift Shop hopes to continue fostering creative opportunities that bring people together and support meaningful causes. Whether you're an artist, a shopper, or a supporter, we invite you to be part of this growing community—where every creation tells a story, and every story makes a difference.