"Be the change you wish to see in the world."

A local artist has been a shining example of Gandhi's famous words. Gregory Kloehn, a 43-year old sculptor who was inspired by the small home environmental movement, scours West Oakland for illegally dumped trash which starts to pile up in the street in semi-industrial areas. He uses this trash to create homes about the size of a couch for street dwellers. Usually the foundation is discarded wood pallets, insulated with discarded pizza deliver bags, and furnished by Kloehn with windows, a mirror and a cup holder. Most importantly, the homes provide a roof over the inhabitant's head, which is a crucial detail as the Bay Area gets colder and rain clouds drift closer. "Before I was all about sculpture, but it just sits there," Kloehn said. "I kind of think if you're putting so much effort into something it would be nice if it did something."

Interior of one of the shelters designed by Kloehn (D. Ross Cameron/Bay Area News Group)

Kloehn gives away the homeless houses, but supports his family by selling homes, bars and restaurants that he makes from shipping containers. He has a self-published book out titled "Homeless Architecture" and plans to start workshops to get others involved by teaching them how to make these humble abodes.

(Source: San Jose Mercury News)