Green Magician Turns Trash Into Cash

We've seen artists transform garbage into sculptures and paintings, but Steve Trash adds a new twist to the art of reuse: The zany illusionist performs feats of recycling magic. Trash says, "I find things in the garbage and make up magical routines to go with them."

Every trick he performs carries an eco-friendly message. During one bit, he turns pieces of paper into dollar bills with a flick of his fingers. Other parlor tricks include refilling an empty soda can or changing a deck of cards from red to green. While performing these sleight-of-hand displays, he chats up audiences, educating people about the value of recycling in a refreshing, unexpected way.

After studying theater in Alabama, Trash perfected his routine in the 1980s, working as a busker in New York, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, and was recently honored for his work as an environmental educator. It's no wonder — his energetic performances make recycling seem, well, magical.

--Della Watson