NEWS & LATEST

This month artPAKK are excited to support the Sussex Portrait Artist of The Year 2025 through offering a selection of our industry leading bags to the finalists. The competition is a celebration of artistic talent in Sussex and takes place in the beautiful surroundings of The Venue, Worthing, where 9 artists go head to head to create their best portrait from one of three celebrity sitters over the course of 4 hours. We speak to Louise Duggen organiser of the competition and Director of the Ophelia Art Consultancy about the competition.

What is the SPAOTY?

The Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year competition began as the Worthing Portrait Artist of the Year, founded by Cathy Verney as a fundraiser for the Grade II listed St. Paul’s Church in Worthing. Over time, the building was sold and transformed into The Venue, a multi-award-winning live music space.

Last year, when Cathy decided to step down as organizer and no one had come forward to continue the event, it risked being lost entirely. Around the same time, I had launched the Sussex Creative Art Network CIC, establishing Chichester CAN with the goal of creating opportunities for local artists and strengthening the creative community. Having previously discussed the idea of hosting a similar event in Chichester, it felt like a natural progression to take on the Worthing competition and expand it to cover the whole of Sussex.

Our vision is for Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year to become an annual celebration of portrait artistry, providing a platform for emerging and established artists while also serving as Chichester CAN’s primary fundraiser. The funds raised will support a range of creative projects throughout the year, helping artists to showcase their work, collaborate, and grow within a thriving artistic community.

How important is it to give a platform to upcoming artists?

At Chichester Can, we are dedicated to providing opportunities for local artists to showcase their work, lead workshops, and contribute to a thriving creative community in Chichester and beyond. 

From the very start, the goal of this event has been to offer a platform to as many artists as possible. While the nine finalists remain at the heart of the competition, we have also ensured that other talented creatives are involved. Instead of purchasing off-the-shelf trophies, we commissioned Sussex artist Curly Mark to design unique awards. 

We’ve invited three artists to host a pop-up stall, giving them the chance to present and sell their work alongside pieces from our judges, Wendy and Amy. Additionally, Chichester-based singer Jess will take to the stage throughout the day to share her music, and photographer Doug Henry West has generously volunteered his time to document the event. By prioritizing inclusivity and celebrating artistic talent in multiple forms, we hope to create an event that truly supports and uplifts the local creative community.

What makes  SPAOTY exciting?

If you’re a fan of Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year, you’ll love this! We are honoured to have last year’s Sky Arts winner, Wendy Barret  on our judging panel, alongside acclaimed artist and host of two artist of the year masterclass on Sky Arts,  Amy Dury, and Eden Maseyk, co-founder of Helm Gallery, in Brighton

The competition will feature three celebrity sitters: Dunstan Bruce, lead singer of Chumbawamba; comedian Rich Wilson; and actor Richie Campbell, known for his role in Grace, filmed in Brighton. Each of the sitters will pose for three of the finalists.

With over 60 artists submitting their work, selecting the final nine was no easy feat for our judges. Gary Mansfield, artist and host of the renowned Ministry of Arts podcast, will serve as our event host, conducting interviews with artists, sitters, and judges throughout the day.

Taking place on March 22nd, 2025, from 1 PM to 6:00 PM at The Venue in Worthing, this live painting competition will feature nine outstanding finalists, each tasked with creating a portrait in just four hours—all in front of a live audience. Our esteemed panel of three judges will assess the final works and crown this year’s Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year.

The event is a showcase of Sussex’s vibrant creative community, as well as a major fundraiser for Chichester CAN—a non-profit initiative supporting local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

The Artists:

In regards to regional art scenes, how do you see the health of the art scene outside of London?

While London remains a dominant cultural hub, increased funding, decentralization efforts, and digital platforms have allowed regional artists and organizations to gain more recognition. 

The South Coast has developed its own identity, supported by local councils, festivals like the Brighton Festival and Coastal Currents, and an increasing number of artist-led initiatives. 

Funding and infrastructure challenges remain, but the region’s affordability compared to London and its strong community networks make it an exciting and sustainable place for artists to live and work. 

Challenges such as funding disparities and accessibility still exist, but overall, the art scene outside London is flourishing and becoming more self-sustaining.

What makes for a great art competition?

A great art competition, like Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year, should not only celebrate artistic excellence but also actively engage the public and support artists in their careers.

By combining public interaction with tangible career support, the competition can become more than just an award—it can serve as a platform that nurtures artistic growth and strengthens the cultural identity of Sussex.

See the artist’s submissions below:

We’re excited to be supporting this great competition and look forward to seeing the results, wishing the best of luck to all involved! Shop our sustainable art packaging solutions and register for your account today. Find out more about the competition and via the official website.

In recent years, the push for sustainability has permeated nearly every industry, and the art world is no exception. As artists, galleries, and museums strive to reduce their environmental impact, sustainable packing is becoming a key focus. From shipping fragile artworks to preserving delicate pieces for exhibition, the need for eco-friendly packaging solutions is more pressing than ever. In this article, we explore the importance of sustainable packing in the art world, its benefits, and how it’s changing the way art is transported and stored.

Why Sustainable Packing Matters in the Art World

The art world is notorious for its heavy reliance on traditional packing materials such as plastic bubble wrap, Styrofoam, and cardboard—items that are often non-recyclable or harmful to the environment. When artworks are transported across long distances or stored for exhibitions, these materials are essential for ensuring their safety. However, as awareness about environmental issues grows, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives is becoming more urgent.

Sustainable packing practices in the art world not only help reduce waste and pollution but also align with the broader cultural shift toward responsible consumption. By adopting greener packing materials, the art community can demonstrate a commitment to preserving the planet as well as preserving artworks for future generations.

artPAKK: Leading the Way in Eco-Friendly Art Packaging

You very own Essex-based gallery owwer, Soo Turner has developed artPAKK, a notable alternative in the field of sustainable art packaging. A company dedicated to providing environmentally conscious packing solutions. artPAKK’s approach to art transportation prioritizes the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly cushioning alternatives. The company’s goal is to reduce the environmental impact of art shipping while maintaining the highest standards of protection for valuable artworks.

By combining sustainable practices with innovative designs, artpakk has become a leading example of how the art world can transition to greener methods of packing and shipping. Their work is helping to set new standards for how art can be safely transported without compromising the planet’s future.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the growing adoption of sustainable packing, there are challenges to overcome. For one, sourcing eco-friendly materials can be difficult in some regions, and there may be concerns about the cost and availability of sustainable packing solutions. Additionally, some artists and galleries may be hesitant to make the switch due to the perceived complexity of transitioning to new systems.

However, the increasing demand for sustainability and innovation in the packaging industry presents significant opportunities. As more artists, collectors, and institutions recognize the importance of sustainable packing, companies specializing in eco-friendly art shipping and packaging solutions, such as Artpakk, are likely to expand their offerings. Furthermore, advancements in biodegradable materials and technology could result in even more effective and affordable options in the near future.

Sustainable packing is not just a trend; it’s a necessary evolution in the art world’s approach to transportation and preservation. By adopting eco-friendly alternatives, galleries, artists, and museums can reduce their environmental impact while ensuring that artworks are safely and responsibly handled. As sustainability becomes a core value across industries, the art world is leading by example, proving that the protection of our planet and the protection of art can go hand in hand.

Register for your trade account today with artPAKK & save time, money & the planet here.

In the art world, packaging plays a crucial role in protecting valuable creations during transportation and storage. For years, bubble wrap has been a go-to material for safeguarding artworks, but its environmental impact is increasingly raising red flags. ArtPAKK is a reusable alternative that not only offers superior protection but also addresses the pressing issue of sustainability. This blog explores why ArtPAKK is a better choice for the planet and how switching from bubble wrap can make a meaningful difference.

Bursting the Bubble

Globally, an estimated 1.5 million tons of bubble wrap are produced each year. Much of it is used for single-use applications, particularly in packaging. Once discarded, bubble wrap often ends up in landfills or as litter because most recycling programs do not accept it due to its thin, flexible nature.

Bubble wrap is non-biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. Its lightweight design makes it prone to being blown into waterways, where it contributes to marine pollution. When bubble wrap and other plastics enter ecosystems, animals can mistake them for food. Consuming plastic can lead to blockages, starvation, or poisoning, affecting wildlife populations worldwide.

ArtPAK: the Eco-Friendly Solution

ArtPAKK addresses these environmental issues while providing outstanding protection needed for transporting and storing artworks. Here’s why it stands out:

Our eco-friendly, recyclable, and reusable materials avoid the use of single-use plastics, significantly reducing waste. And, unlike bubble wrap, which is rarely reused, ArtPAKK is designed for multiple uses. This reduces the need for frequent repurchasing and lowers the overall consumption of resources. By replacing disposable materials with durable, long-lasting solutions, ArtPAKK helps you to cut down on the volume of packaging waste that ends up in landfills.

Bubble Wrap vs. ArtPAKK

To better understand the difference, let’s look at the lifecycle of each material:

Bubble Wrap is made from petroleum-based plastics and its production requires large amounts of energy and emits significant greenhouse gases. ArtPAKK uses sustainable materials that are either recyclable or biodegradable and our production processes are designed to minimise energy use and waste.

Typically Bubble Wrap is single-use and loses its cushioning properties after the first application.ArtPAKK is both durable and designed for repeated use, making it reusable saving the planet, time and resources.

Bubble Wrap is notoriously difficult to recycle and often discarded improperly, leading to long-term environmental harm. Both reusable and recyclable, artPAKK offers minimal ecological impact whilst safely packaging your important artworks.

Switching to ArtPAKK is not just a practical choice—it’s an ethical one. As we grapple with the global plastic crisis, every step toward reducing waste counts. Choosing ArtPAKK over bubble wrap can significantly lower the art world’s contribution to plastic pollution and help protect the planet for future generations.

By adopting ArtPAKK, the art community can continue to celebrate beauty and creativity without compromising the health of our environment. This simple but powerful shift underscores the idea that sustainability and quality can go hand in hand.

Discover our eco-friendly range of wholesale art packaging supplies today. Call  +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 info@artpakk.com. 

We understand that, for collectors, art is more than mere possessions—they are investments, emotional treasures, and tangible connections to culture and creativity. Ensuring these artworks remain pristine and protected is a top priority, particularly when it comes to storage. The right storage solution safeguards art from physical damage, environmental threats, and long-term deterioration.

ArtPAKK is the standout choice for art collectors looking to protect their collections. Offering a blend of cutting-edge materials, eco-conscious design, and being easy-to-use, ArtPAKK ensures your art stays safe, no matter the circumstances. Here’s why ArtPAKK is an excellent protective storage solution for art collectors.

Unlike generic storage materials like bubble wrap or cardboard, ArtPAKK is designed with the unique needs of artworks in mind. Each ArtPAKK product is created to address the vulnerabilities of different types of art, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and mixed media pieces.

ArtPAKK’s interior materials ensure that delicate surfaces like canvas, glass, or varnished wood remain free from scratches or abrasions. And, whether storing flat pieces like paintings or irregularly shaped sculptures, ArtPAKK offers a variety of solutions tailored to fit specific needs.

As collectors ourselves, we know that artworks face multiple risks during storage, including physical damage, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and dust. ArtPAKK provides comprehensive, multi-layered protection to address these damaging threats.

he robust exterior of ArtPAKK shields artwork from impacts, punctures, and crushing forces, keeping your pieces safe even in crowded or shared storage spaces. ArtPAKKs are water-resistant, offering a crucial barrier against damp conditions that can warp, rot, or otherwise damage art. For artworks sensitive to temperature changes, ArtPAKK helps insulate against extreme heat or cold, maintaining a stable environment and ensuring that the works are in the best condition and.by keeping out dust and harmful UV rays, ArtPAKK prevents discoloration, fading, and surface degradation.

On the move..

Collectors often need to move pieces between storage, exhibitions, and displays. ArtPAKK makes this process effortless with its lightweight, user-friendly design. Designed for easy opening and closing, the easy to use artPAKKS make it easy to access pieces without complex unwrapping or repacking. Available in 15 sizes, the snug, secure fit of ArtPAKKs minimises movement and friction during handling, reducing the risk of damage.

Going Green…

Art collectors who value the preservation of culture often extend their appreciation to environmental stewardship. ArtPAKK is a sustainable choice that helps both artworks stay in their best condition and our planet. By using sustainable materials, artPAKK helps collectors to reduce waste, promoting responsible consumption. Unlike the bain that is bubble wrap or disposable plastic sheeting, ArtPAKK is built for multiple uses, offering a long-term solution that minimizes environmental impact.

Trusted by Professionals

ArtPAKK isn’t just popular among collectors; our products are trusted by galleries, museums, and professional art handlers around the world. This endorsement from industry experts underscores our reliability and quality. Each artPAKK uses premium, museum-grade materials and ensures that your collection receives the same level of care as priceless institutional pieces. Many galleries and shipping companies rely on ArtPAKK for secure storage and transportation, a testament to its effectiveness and the quality of its protection and ease of use. 

Art collectors face unique challenges in protecting their investments. With our focus on durability, sustainability, and specialised design, ArtPAKK offers a superior solution for the secure storage of artworks. Whether you’re safeguarding a single treasured piece or an extensive collection, ArtPAKK provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing your art is in safe hands.

Discover our eco-friendly range of wholesale art packaging supplies today. Call  +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 info@artpakk.com.

When it comes to preserving and transporting artwork, choosing the right packaging materials is not just a logistical decision—it’s a matter of ensuring the safety, longevity, and integrity of invaluable pieces. Traditional packaging materials like bubble wrap, cardboard, and Styrofoam have been widely used for years with the non-recycable materials having a devastating effect on our planet. ArtPAKK are revolutionising the art world through our range of reusable and eco-friendly art packaging solutions one artwork at a time.. 

Traditional packaging materials are generic and not specifically designed for the unique needs of artwork. For instance, bubble wrap can scratch delicate surfaces, and cardboard offers limited protection against moisture or physical impacts. ArtPAKK, on the other hand, is engineered with artwork in mind. All of the materials used are designed to safeguard fragile, valuable pieces against environmental factors such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, and accidental damage.

The soft interior of ArtPAKKs ensures that paintings, sculptures, and other art forms are cushioned without abrasion. Whether in storage or in transit, artworks can be damaged and degrade over time if the materials often due to the materials used. ArtPAKK’s interiors are acid-free and pH-neutral composition ensuring the  preservation of the important contents, and avoiding the risks of chemical reactions that can occur with some traditional materials.

Traditional materials often wear out quickly, especially when, although rarely, reused. Bubble wrap can lose its air pockets, cardboard can tear, and Styrofoam is prone to crumbling. ArtPAKK provides durability that surpasses these options, maintaining its protective qualities over multiple uses and multiple years. The robust exterior of each artPAKK shields against tears, punctures, and compression, ensuring that even during extended storage or long-distance transport, your artwork remains safe.

Environmental Sustainability – One artPAKK at a time

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need for sustainable practices, traditional packaging materials are falling out of favor. Styrofoam, for example, is non-biodegradable and contributes significantly to landfill waste. Similarly, single-use bubble wrap and plastic materials exacerbate environmental problems.

ArtPAKK leads the market in eco-friendly art packaging solutions and our each of our art packaging supplies are made with sustainable, recyclable materials, helping reduce the environmental footprint of art packing and shipping. The reusability of each artPAKK means fewer materials are discarded after each use, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run.

One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional packaging is its lack of adaptability. Bubble wrap and cardboard are often cut and patched together to fit irregular shapes, leading to inconsistent protection. ArtPAKK eliminates this issue with over 15 sizing options each designed for various types of artwork – no work is too big or too small. Whether you’re dealing with a painting or print, ArtPAKKs sizes can be tailored to fit perfectly, securely and in an eco-friendly way.

Saving trees as money doesn’t grow on them…

At first glance, traditional materials might seem cheaper than ArtPAKK, but their limitations and disposability often make them more expensive in the long run. The reusability of ArtPAKK reduces recurring costs for packaging materials and the industry-leading protection minimises the risk of damage, which can lead to costly repairs or losses.

When preparing artworks for transportation,traditional materials often require multiple layers and extensive effort to provide adequate protection. ArtPAKK simplifies this process with its all-in-one solutions. The ease of use means less time spent wrapping and securing pieces allowing for more efficient use of time and resources.

ArtPAKK has become the go-to choice for many artists, curators, galleries, and museums worldwide with our eco-friendly, time savings packaging supplies that offer consistent performance and reliability. Industry leaders trust ArtPAKK to protect some of the world’s most valuable pieces during transport and storage.

While traditional packaging materials have served their purpose, they fall short in meeting the evolving demands of the art world and importance of meeting sustainable goals. ArtPAKK combines innovation, sustainability, and practicality, making it the superior choice for anyone serious about protecting their artwork.

Whether you’re an artist shipping a painting to a client, a gallery preparing for an international exhibition, or a museum safeguarding a priceless painting, ArtPAKK offers peace of mind, knowing your work is protected by the best in the business. 

In a world where the preservation of art is paramount, ArtPAKK isn’t just an alternative—it’s a necessity.

Discover our eco-friendly range of wholesale art packaging supplies today. Call  +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 info@artpakk.com.

The art world thrives on creativity and innovation, but traditionally the supporting industries, such as art packing and shipping, often, quite rightly, face scrutiny for their environmental impact. From the heavy use of non-recyclable materials to the carbon emissions associated with global transportation, the art packing industry has significant room to improve its sustainability practices. Embracing eco-conscious solutions, such as artPAKK’s industry-leading packaging, is no longer optional but a necessity for galleries, packers and artists themselves who aim to align with global sustainability goals and the values of contemporary art consumers.

The Environmental Challenges of Art Packing

The primary goal of art packing is to protect artworks during storage and transit. However, achieving this,often involves materials and processes that leave a heavy environmental footprint:

Excessive Use of Single-Use Plastics: Bubble wrap, plastic foam, and shrink wrap are ubiquitous in art packing. While effective in providing cushioning, these materials are typically non-biodegradable and challenging to recycle.

Wood Consumption: Wooden crates, often custom-built for artworks, contribute to deforestation if sourced unsustainably. Improper disposal can also lead to landfill overflow.

Carbon Emissions: The transportation of art, especially for international exhibitions, contributes to carbon emissions. The logistics chain includes air freight, road transport, and sometimes shipping, all of which leave a carbon trail.

Chemical Use: Some materials used in art preservation, such as adhesives and coatings, release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can harm both the environment and human health.

It has been estimated that in 2018, 4.2 million tons of bubble wrap was produced with 3.04 million tons ended up in landfills. Indeed, only 2% of film and flexible packaging materials are recycled each year and over the last 10 years, there have been over 141 million tonnes of  plastic packaging  produced a year. There is a solution..

Why Sustainability Matters in Art Packing

As global awareness of climate change grows, businesses across industries are being held accountable for their environmental impact. In the art world, sustainability is particularly pertinent for many. Collectors, museums, and galleries increasingly favour businesses that demonstrate eco-friendly practices. Aligning with these values enhances brand reputation and shows forward thinking practices. ArtPAKK have, for over XXX YEARS, worked with collectors, packing companies and galleries with our multi-use, sustainable offerings.

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need for sustainable practices, traditional packaging materials are falling out of favor. Styrofoam, for example, is non-biodegradable and contributes significantly to landfill waste. Similarly, single-use bubble wrap and plastic materials exacerbate environmental problems.

Our range of products are made with sustainable, recyclable materials, helping reduce the environmental footprint of art handling and shipping. The reusability of our artPAKKs means fewer materials are discarded after each use, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run. We are committed to helping the world reduce it’s dependency on unsustainable materials with easy to use, protective solutions. 

Sustainability in the art packing industry is a shared responsibility. Businesses, museums, galleries, and even individual collectors have a role to play. By prioritising and using artpAKK’s eco-friendly packaging supplies, the art world can set an example for other industries, proving that cultural preservation and environmental conservation can go hand in hand.

Ultimately, adopting sustainable art packing practices is about more than compliance or consumer demand. It’s about safeguarding the planet for future generations of artists and art lovers. By investing in sustainable innovation today, the art packing industry can contribute to a more resilient and eco-conscious tomorrow.

Discover our eco-friendly range of wholesale art packaging supplies today. Call  +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 info@artpakk.com.

artPAKK are delighted to announce that we are the official art bag partner of London Art Fair 2025. 

Since 1989, London Art Fair has showcased modern and contemporary art from around the world and, this year, the fair is bigger than ever. Taking place at the Business Design Centre in Islington from the 22-26th of January, the fair expects to attract over 25,000 visitors. With over 120 galleries, a variety of art for purchase, and a program of talks, tours, and events we are excited to participate and introduce artPAKK to collectors, galleries and artists as we continue to expand. 

artPAKK’s sustainable and reusable packaging solutions will provide protection to the artworks as they make their way to new homes and galleries across the world. In conjunction with the official Packing and Shipping Partner Ebiss, artPAKK are supplying over industry leading HOW MANY packaging bags in various sizes to help ensure that the artworks arrive in perfect condition. 

EBISS are a specialist logistics company with many years of experience supporting artists, art fairs, art galleries, live events, exhibitions and conferences and handle every aspect of logistics including, shipping, exhibition stand design and build, onsite installation of any exhibition stands, displays or assets. 

artPAKK continues to be instrumental in changing the art industry as people become more aware about the amount of packaging that is thrown away. We are now seeing mindsets change and galleries & artists start to use this reusable bag. It’s not about money anymore, it is about caring for the environment.

The ArtPakk is a reusable protective bag for art and frames and can also be used for storage and removals eliminating the need bubblewrap and other wasteful and damaging packing.

The ArtPakk is environmentally friendly, both the fabrics used in the bags are non-toxic and are recyclable materials Using artPAKK not only saves time, especially when stripping down an exhibition booth, and are easy to use repeatedly which offers a more eco-friendly alternative.
For more information on artPAKK’s involvement  as the official art bag partner of London Art Fair 2025, contact our team on +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 or via info@artpakk.com

We are excited to announce the launch of our new website! Following on from a successful 2024, where artPAKK helped over x clients, supplying over X artPKKs to private collectors, artist studios, logistics companies and private and public galleries we have launched a new trade website.

Designed to respond to the varying needs of ours, our new website makes ordering and supplying our sustainable packaging solutions as simple as the click of a button – or as simple as using an artPAKK itself. 

As we continue to expand both in the UK and overseas, we wanted to create a website that would allow clients to easily find the solution for their packaging needs. Ease of use and navigation are the two key areas we have improved which allow users to find what they want with speed and ease. Designed for both, our developers have created a website that makes finding your packing solution and ordering easy and stress-free.

Working with clients across the art supply chain, the website had been created to order both single artPAKKs and multiples. Specifically designed to meet your packaging needs, Director and Founds Soo Turner’s decades of experience within the artworld both as an art dealer and framer, have crafted the artPAKK to become the industry standard and we hope our new website will do the same. 

Fast, responsive and easy to navigate, Singles can be easily ordered via the dedicated singles collection. Likewise, the 17 sizes are available in multi-packs and have their own boxes collection. For those looking to explore their options, the main category assists. Each category has a useful filter allowing users to find specifically what they want without having to visit each product. 

Finally, as we continue to grow, so do the stockists we work with who can help non-trade clients find their perfect artPAKK. Our dedicated where to buy page that features the major retailers we work with helps those who are non-trade to find their reusable, environmentally sustainable and protective artPAKK. 

On behalf of all at artPAKK, we hope our new website will help you find your artPAKK and we look forward to an exciting and busy 2025 with clients new and old. 

For more information on artPAKK, contact our team on +44 (0)1245 95 69 17 or via info@artpakk.com