Call For Artists
The Putnam Museum and Science Center is hosting the fourth annual recycling fashion show, Garbage Glam at the Putnam Palooza Saturday, May 9, 2026.
Originally inspired by the JUNKraft exhibit, the event is now an annual celebration of fashion with a spotlight on plastic pollution. Designers collect recycled materials and craft a “garment” using at least 70% reused materials. Craft dresses, jackets, suits, or anything your model can wear down the runway.
Designers will compete in two categories, Ready-To-Wear and Avant Garde:
- $400 First Prize – Ready-To-Wear Category
- $100 Runner-Up – Ready-To-Wear Category
- $400 First Prize – Avant Garde Category
- $100 Runner-Up – Avant Garde Category
Judges will rate the Ready-To-Wear designs on three components:
- 50% Practicality & Function
- 30% Construction
- 20% Model performance
Judges will rate the Avant Garde designs on three components:
- 50% Creativity
- 30% Construction
- 20% Model performance
The event will be at 5:30 pm with designers and models arriving at 3:30 pm. It will be the designers responsibility to arrange for hair and makeup for their model. Designers will be asked to share their inspiration.
We ask the designer to share images of garment on the model by April 1.
Each designer pays a $25 sign-up fee. Participating designers & models will receive complementary admission for the participant and a guest. Light refreshments provided and a cash bar.
Please note that there is a 12 designer limit. Designers that sign up after the maximum is reached will be placed on a waiting list.
