A.R.R.R.T. which stands for ARTIVISM: REUSE, RECYCLE, REIMAGINE FOR TEXAS is Mermaid Society's new creative community programming initiative that merges art, activism, and environmental stewardship to inspire positive change through creative expression.

Introducing ARRRT: The Heart of Our Youth Eco-Stewardship Movement!
Artivism. Reuse. Recycle. Reimagine. For Texas.

At the Mermaid Society of Texas, we’re making waves with a bold, beautiful new vision — and it all starts with ARRRT! Our Youth Eco-Stewardship Program is proudly STEAM-friendly, with the “A” standing for ARRRT — because we believe that artivism is a powerful way to spark curiosity, passion, and action for a more sustainable world.

ARRRT stands for Artivism: Reuse, Recycle, Reimagine for Texas, and it marks a thrilling new chapter in our mission to inspire environmental guardianship through creativity. This unique initiative combines art, activism, and eco-awareness to encourage all ages to see the world — and their waste — in a whole new light.

As digital artivist Nikkolas Smith says:

“Artivism is using art as a tool to inspire people to make a positive change in the world...to motivate them to fix what’s wrong.”
We couldn’t agree more.

We’re just getting started — and we’re bursting with excitement about what’s ahead! Through youth programming, community workshops, festival events, and interactive art spaces, ARRRT will serve as a catalyst for a new generation of changemakers ready to transform their communities through creativity and care for the environment.

Debuting at this year’s Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest!
ARRRT will take center stage, beginning with a parade challenge where all participants are invited to design their floats with upcycled and reimagined materials — prizes will go to the most ARRRTful creations! The fun continues with our new ARRRT Zone at the Aqua Blues Music & Art Fest in Plaza Park (Noon–7:00 p.m.), where families can dive into hands-on activities and witness the power of reuse in action.

Whether it’s a hat made from repurposed treasures or a sculpture built from discarded plastics, we’re inviting everyone to Reuse, Recycle, Reimagine — and to live an ARRRTful life.

This is just the beginning. Together, we’re shaping a movement — one brushstroke, one bottle cap, and one bold idea at a time.

Follow our journey, join the fun, and check out our Pinterest page for tons of creative ARRRT inspiration!

Let’s turn trash into treasure and make Texas sparkle with sustainable style.