The Brick
The brick Arthur throws at Mr. Hampton symbolizes his fury at the loss of his father. Arthur is depressed and thinks the best way to relieve his stress is to hurt other people. When Hampton passes by to collect trash, Arthur throws a brick at him, not knowing he is committing a serious crime. Police arrest Arthur and sentence him to community service. Ironically, the police assign him to collect trash alongside Mr. Hampton.
Hampton’s garage
Hampton's garage symbolizes possibilities. The garbage (the seven dirty items Hampton collects) is converted into beautiful art in Hampton's garage. Arthur thinks nothing good can come out of the trash. However, Hampton uses his expertise in the garage to make beautiful artwork. Consequently, Arthur discovers the possibility of turning waste into treasure.
The sculpture
Hampton's sculpture symbolizes heaven. When Arthur looks at the sculpture, he develops mixed feelings and thinks about the final destination of his dead father. Initially, Arthur does not believe there is heaven because nothing supports that idea. However, when Mr. Hampton tells Arthur that the sculpture represents holiness, he believes that his father is in heaven.
