THE ORIGINAL BAG
The Original Bag is a Melbourne-based accessories label founded by Susie Clarke, reimagining art as something not just seen, but carried. Each piece functions as both collectible and canvas—digitally preserving the brushstrokes of Australia’s most exciting visual artists and translating them into limited-edition, gallery-grade handbags.
Driven by the ethos to #takeyourartout, Clarke collaborates directly with artists like Delvine Pitjara and Konstantina, spotlighting stories rooted in Country, memory, and Dreaming. More than fashion, the label is a slow-made tribute to culture—crafted in heavyweight cotton canvas, premium leather trim, and finished with edition markings that echo the language of fine art.
featured in our
issue no. 4 — “HUMAN MADE”
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Susie: Letting go of structure and embracing the unpredictable nature of creativity. In the corporate world, there’s a clear roadmap. With The Original Bag, every day is an evolution—design decisions, artist collaborations, supply chain logistics, and building a brand identity all happen simultaneously. There’s no ‘perfect formula,’ and that can be daunting. There were definitely moments of imposter syndrome, but the passion behind this project kept me moving forward. Learning to trust the creative process has been both my biggest challenge and my greatest reward.
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Susie: Seeing the connection between our customers and the artists. When someone buys a bag, they’re not just purchasing an accessory—they’re investing in a story, a piece of heritage, and an artist’s vision. Watching people resonate with that meaning, wear it with pride, and share their love for these designs is incredibly fulfilling.
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Susie: Konstantina and Delvine are storytellers in their own right. Konstantina’s bold, contemporary Aboriginal art bursts with energy and movement, while Delvine’s minimalist aesthetic carries a quiet, powerful elegance. Their work represents both modernity and heritage, which aligns perfectly with The Original Bag—where timeless artistry meets contemporary luxury. Launching with these two artists wasn’t just about their incredible talent—it was about honouring diverse artistic expressions and making them part of everyday life.