In a joint venture combining visual art, culture and sustainability, Indigenous artist Ryhia Dank has joined forces with Woolworths Australia for a new series of reusable $2 art bags.
Created to showcase the work of emerging Australian artists while supporting local communities through a donation from each bag purchased, the new series - which is also set to be available in BIG W stores for the first time - follows its original launch in 2024.
Dank's painting is storywork which she calls Nardurna, which means woman in Gudanji.
When discussing the inspiration behind the bag collection, the Gudanji/Wakaja artist who grew up in Borroloola - a remote community in the Northern Territory - said each design featured within the bag collection is symbolic and special.
"Art is about connection and passing down stories and creativity to the next generation," she said.
"I feel like I have shared it through these bags and that means so much to me. Each design is special, with patterns inspired by bush foods like Billy Goat plums, combining both my traditional style and more modern line work.
"I hope these bags inspire people to tell their own stories. Whether you're an artist or just starting, there's a place for your creativity."
Customers shopping at Woolworths supermarkets will find three unique designs celebrating fresh food and connection to the land. The artworks, titled 'Grateful', 'Baji' and 'Juwarda', incorporate elements of food and family gatherings.
Expanding the offering to BIG W, two additional artworks have been designed by Ryhia titled 'Yandu' and 'Home'.
Both Dank and Woolworths have ensured the bags are as practical and sustainable as they are eye catching.
Priced at $2 each, the bags are made using at least 90 per cent recycled materials. Offering both a short and long strap, they are ideal for carrying over the shoulder or by hand.
Woolworths Group commercial director of everyday needs, James Hepworth, said the supermarket chain is proud to support the initiative which showcases "talented Australian artists" such as Dank.
"Since their launch, the Art Bags have been a popular choice for customers, with their durable design, striking artwork and the support they provide to local communities," he said.
"Our first series helped raise vital funds for the Yothu Yindi Foundation. This time, 20 cents from every purchase of an Art Bag in the new series will support the partner charities of the Woolworths Group Foundation in their work helping Australian communities impacted by natural disasters."
The art bag range joins a number of reusable carry bag options Woolworths customers can choose from. They include the 25-cent paper bag, the classic tote shopping bag, the foldable fabric bag and a chiller bag.
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