Typically, we buy packages of Kahwa coffee for what’s on the inside. But a new arts initiative by the local coffee company has us picking up packages of whole beans for what’s on the outside. Kahwa Coffee recently launched a new series of “Coffee Canisters” designed by local artists, and the latest iteration is about to be on the shelves.

The colorful and funky new cans of whole bean coffee are being created in a partnership with the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, which is helping Kahwa showcase local artists and the unique designs they have created for the new series. In their effort to support local art, Kahwa announced that the net proceeds of all cans sold will be donated to grow the new St. Petersburg Arts Endowment, a fund created by SPAA to help support area artists.

Their newest artist and can design was announced this week, with a colorful can created by Frederick “Rootman” Woods that will be officially be available for purchase at Kahwa cafes beginning Friday. The official unveiling takes place at the Woodfield Fine Art Gallery this Thursday from 6-8 pm, and the event os open to the public.

Woods is a master storyteller through the canvas, combining old world approaches with modern twists as he creates art that connects with the viewers soul on a spiritual level. Using vibrant colors and bold subjects, Rootman’s art explores the journey of self-discovery, the beauty of nature and life’s many mysteries.

The first artist to be showcased in the Coffee Canisters project was famed St. Petersburg artist Chad Mize, whose work is featured across the globe and is now on cans of coffee throughout Tampa Bay.

As for the coffee itself, each canister is filled with 10 ounces of Kahwa’s Sirocco House Blend, which is a medium-dark blend and has notes of dark cherry and honey. Refills for this canister will be available at all Kahwa cafes, and a portion of refill sales will also be donated to the SPAE.

The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance serves the city’s arts and cultural community, and it created the SPAE to fund grants that address the current needs of artists and arts organizations; support the development of resources for the future; and build a foundation for the arts community’s growth. Kahwa described itself as “very excited and proud to partner and collaborate on this project,” and more can designs will roll out in the coming months.

Learn more and purchase the Coffee Canisters at kahwacoffee.com.