Hugo Medina Orange Mural

Phoenix's Artist of the Year, Hugo Medina, co-founder of the Calle 16 Mural Project, is the creator of the new "oranges" bag for Hip Veggies.

Medina used to spend hours climbing orange trees in his native Bolivia. He says, "My bag was inspired by the amazing memories my dad and family gave me growing up and is dedicated to them."

Medina is responsible for many of the colorful murals around town, and Monika says "Hugo's Hip Veggies contribution would not be complete without a mural."

For the bag launch party on January 31, Medina replicated his orange design on a wall behind Vovomeena Restaurant at Seventh Avenue and McDowell Road. Guests came to admire the mural, pick up their bags and attend a cocktail party featuring orange sangria. Many of the guests stayed on for a special orange-themed dinner.

Medina donated his painting for the canvas bag design to a live auction at the event. The sale of the art, as well as one-third of the profits from the sale of Medina's oranges bag, will benefit the Tumbleweed Center for Homeless Youth.