Fraenck x ArtEZ: from old bags to new flags
- Fashion
Thanks to Arnhem-based social enterprise Fraenck, ArtEZ's outdated flags are getting a new purpose, as designer bags and pouches. A beautiful collaboration aiming to reuse materials. Ratna Ho, co-founder of Fraenck, and ArtEZ have known each other for a long time: in 2009 Ratna graduated from the Fashion Design programme at ArtEZ, where she still teaches.
For years, ArtEZ coloured the city of Arnhem during open days and the ArtEZ finals. Across the city—from bridges and railway stations to the city centre—we proudly use flagpoles to announce graduation exhibitions, open days, and to display the work of our students. While old flags were replaced with new ones, the outdated banners ended up stored in boxes in our storage. Throwing them away felt wrong and went against our ambition to be as sustainable as possible. But what could we do with tthem? As the storage space filled up, it became clear we needed a sustainable solution. With Fraenck, a remarkable social enterprise founded by ArtEZ alumnus Ratna Ho, we found that solution. The flags have been carefully transformed into bags and pouches in Fraenck's workshop. Each one is unique!
Social impact
This collaboration not only supports our sustainability goals but also aligns with our commitment to working with partners who prioritise social impact. It is a perfect example of how we combine sustainability with societal value, and we hope it will inspire other institutions, as well as our staff and students.
Fraenck x ArtEZ: the making of
Fraenck: Social and sustainable
Fraenck is a certified social enterprise, focusing on the development of employees and clients in apprenticeships. All products are made in their own workshop in Arnhem, with recycled materials and a focus on people as the main ingredients.