Mimycri backpack
Date2015-2018
Object number00055338
NameBag
Mediumrubber
DimensionsOverall: 610 × 350 × 150 mm, 900 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection
DescriptionThis backpack is made from 100% rubber boat, hand-collected on the Greek island of Chios in 2015-2017, with straps made from seat belts. It was produced by mimycri, a non-profit organisation in Germany that fosters collaboration between German designers and newcomers to Berlin to upcycle the scraps of history and turn broken refugee rubber boats into bags and backpacks.
HistoryThe idea for mimycri was born on the Greek island Chios where the co-founders – Vera and Nora – volunteered several times since 2015 in the context of refugee arrivals. The direct confrontation with this humanitarian crisis motivated Vera and Nora to stay engaged and do something.
Part of the ethos of mimycri is collaboration, communication, sustainability and integration;
"Collaboration: while working together, we all learn from each other. We are open for new members and partnerships that want to have a positive impact.
Communication: mimycri aims at fostering a dialogue with and between people to better understand, accept and positively shape current developments in our society. The mimycri bags can function as communication-starters.
Sustainability: We are using what is already there and give new life to rejected material. The overall setup of the project is designed to be environmentally, socially and economically independent.
Integration: We are convinced that social and economic participation are key to successful integration. Therefore we work in an diverse team, including newcomers from all around the globe. We also integrate meaningful products into our society and thereby create innovative ways to engage with the topic of migration. "
- mimycri, 2019.
SignificanceLuggage, trunks, suitcases, bags and backpacks are among the defining symbols of the migrant experience. The notion of a backpack made from a former refugee boat adds an entirely different dimension to this iconic symbol of migration. The mimycri backpack carries a unique, personal story of hope and courage, representing positive collaborations between socially-engaged designers and refugees. It provides a perspective on the current global refugee crisis and the power of making history tangible by working together.
