BIFB masks on faces bring some brightness

AT any time of the year in Ballarat, you’ll see shoppers carrying around the Ballarat International Foto Biennale’s iconic yellow and black tote bags.

For the pandemic era, a bunch that were in boxes have been given a second life with a new purpose.

BIFB artistic director, Fiona Sweet is a lover of upcycling, deciding to make the bags into face masks. Finding a machinist, 500 have since been produced.

“About seven weeks ago, I knew we were all going to be wearing masks, and we had all these boxes of fabulous yellow bags leftover that everyone loves,” she said.

“It was a no-brainer not to waste the bags and put them to good use.”

Orders have been placed locally and in Melbourne, and some purchasers have already received their masks.

“Lots of people are wearing them. We’re getting classic photos of people in Northcote and Brunswick, who love the Biennale, wearing the masks,” Ms Sweet said.

“It’s fun, and they’re cotton so they’re comfy. Everyone notices them because they’re quite loud.”

The next Ballarat International Foto Biennale will open next year on Saturday, 28 August.

“We’re already in full planning mode for next year. The masks remind people of the festival, and any promotion helps,” Ms Sweet said.

Visit ballaratfoto.org/merchandise.