Arts Council England has teamed up with Sainsbury’s to launch a range of limited edition re-usable shopping bags featuring specially commissioned work by established artists Paul Morrison, Michael Craig-Martin and Anya Gallaccio.

The scheme aims to raise awareness and debate about the role the arts play in people’s lives, as well as promoting the use of environmentally friendly carrier bags.

The first bag features a wintry woodland sketch by Sheffield-based Morrison, the second is a celebration of pop art and retro style by Craig-Martin and the third design features vegetables by Gallaccio.

Andy Carver, executive director for Arts Council England, Yorkshire, said: “We wanted to celebrate our 60th anniversary by bringing art into people’s everyday lives. Artist Paul Morrison has produced a striking bag which will hopefully get people thinking about art and the environment and encourage them to reuse bags.”

Justin King, chief executive of Sainsbury’s, added: “We strongly believes that encouraging customers to shop with re-usable bags is the best solution, and we hope these special artist-designed bags make that option easier and more appealing.”

All proceeds will be donated to local charities. Details: www.artscouncil.org.uk

Photograph: courtesy of Michael Craig Martin