From Facade to Fashion
Published on 24 September 2025
Limited-Edition Tote Bags Made From Peter Biram’s Salt Landscapes
For five years, visitors to Frankston Arts Centre were greeted by the vivid façade installation Salt Landscapes, a large-scale artwork by renowned Australian artist Peter Biram. From 2020 to 2025, the work became a landmark of the city’s cultural precinct, sparking discussion about our fragile environment. Now, thanks to an innovative partnership with UpShop Industries, this striking artwork has been given a second life - transformed into a limited collection of sustainable tote bags.
Priced at $45 each, the bags are more than just practical accessories. They are one-of-a-kind pieces of art, with every tote carrying a unique fragment of Biram’s work. The artist himself is delighted with the concept. Known for his strong environmental stance, Biram says the transformation perfectly reflects the message of Salt Landscapes, which explored the environmental crisis we are facing today.
The initiative also supports the local community. All profits from sales will go directly to the Frankston Environmental Friends Network, funding vital grassroots environmental projects. Buying a bag not only gives you a piece of art to carry but also contributes to a healthier planet.
The project was made possible by UpShop Industries, a certified social enterprise specialising in upcycled design. Founder Mario explains:
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. On every project, we aim to repurpose as much waste material as possible and send less than 10% to landfill. Wherever we can, we avoid adding new materials—though sometimes small additions are needed, like the cotton lining on the handles of the Peter Biram bags. Even then it was important we sourced this locally and without packaging, so we’re not contributing to a further waste problem.”
The reuse of the Salt Landscapes PVC banner is especially significant given Australia’s growing landfill challenge. Over 1.7 million square metres of PVC vinyl are reported to be dumped each year, with no mainstream recycling solution available. Mario commended the City of Frankston for taking the initiative to repurpose its vinyl waste instead of adding to the problem.
Each tote bag is durable, practical, and infused with cultural, environmental, and social meaning. As Mario notes, working with Frankston’s Public Art Officer, Rebecca Gendron, was a highlight of the project:
“It was a pleasure to extend the life of a prominent artwork that emblazoned their building for so many years.”
Carry a masterpiece. Own a limited-edition work of art. Support the planet.
To purchase a Salt Landscapes bag, visit the Frankston Arts Centre foyer during open hours and discover them in the Design Store cabinets in the foyer. The centre is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am-5pm and on Saturday from 10am-2pm.