Whether for the WWF or PBS, from Strand or the infamous Anya Hindmarch, tote bags say a lot for a piece of canvas and work hard carrying our groceries, beach gear and millions of miscellaneous objects too clumsy or cumbersome for the average bag. Well now they’re helping the greening of the Brooklyn waterfront too as the focus of Dirtbag; an exhibition and benefit sale for the Brooklyn Greenway Initiative and Urban Art Projects.

Dirt Bag is a collection of worn and torn tote bags exhibited on the walls of Slate Gallery, curated by Gillian S. Wilson and Sara McCormack. Accompanying each designed tote is the story of its journey from the hands of the artists and designers to the floors of parties, parks and travels. Within our mass media culture, the lowly tote bag has become a means of expression where the consumer chooses which design or brand they wish to promote by toting it on their shoulder.

New limited edition tote bags created by selected artists and designers will be on sale at both events and on the Slate Gallery website (don’t worry, they won’t break the bank). All proceeds from the sales will be donated to two non-profit organizations dedicated to the beautification and improvement of the Brooklyn waterfront for the public’s use, Brooklyn art and parks. A formidable cause considering the Brooklyn waterfront has been deemed one of America’s 11 most endangered historic places.

Dirtbag
Opening party and reception start Sept 4, from 7pm - 10 pm
DJ Set by Max Wowch
Slate Gallery 163 Wyeth St.
(Exhibition runs through Sept 8th - Closing reception from 1pm - 6pm)

For more park supporting fun, check out Jelly NYC’s benefit concert for the Open Space Alliance on Sept 15th at McCarren pool with performances by GZA and Jamie Lidell. You can get tickets here.