Leftovers

Inspiring others to rethink waste by showing how art and sustainability can intersect to make a positive impact

Image shows details of Dodgy Paper studio with recycled paper piles, and on the right the image shows a view looking into Lousy Ink studio with person work at desk wit coloured inks and CMYK chart on the wall

Image Credit: Details from Dodgy Paper and Lousy Ink studio spaces (Supplied by Dodgy Paper and Lousy Ink)

Leftovers is a collaboration between Lousy Ink and Dodgy Paper, who both share a passion for eco-conscious initiatives that turn waste into creative resources, and that are founded by artists for artists.

Lousy Ink repurposes ink from discarded printer cartridges, transforming them into sustainable art supplies. Dodgy Paper handcrafts unique paper sheets using recycled and up-cycled materials, including old drawings, fine art offcuts, and more.

As Innovators in Residence at the Fishermans Bend Circular Design Cluster they will continue to develop their own sustainability initiatives. Driven by their passion as practicing artists, they also plan to collaborate and invite local artists to experiment with these sustainable materials, exploring new methods and creative possibilities while raising awareness of environmental issues.

This collaboration will demonstrate that art can be both resourceful and impactful, with waste materials serving as inspiration rather than limitation. It will highlight the story behind each batch of ink and paper—whether it’s ink salvaged from recycling programs or paper made from scraps collected from studios. Their approach emphasises the importance of reusing, repurposing, and recycling, not only in their products but in their broader business practices, from eco-friendly packaging to connecting and collaborating with artists.

Together, they aim to inspire others to rethink waste, demonstrating how creativity and sustainability can intersect to make a positive impact.

Project Leads

  • Lousy Ink

  • Dodgy Paper

Project Partners

  • FB IDEAs

  • Gamuda Land Australia