York St John launch 'pop-up' shop to showcase local design talent

York St John University has launched a ‘pop-up’ shop in Bar Lane Studios, on Micklegate in York, to boost opportunities in the city for graduate artists.

Bar Lane Studios provides affordable studio space for creative businesses in York. The project will pioneer the re-use of space within Bar Lane Studios to house temporary retail space and exhibitions and provide ad hoc headquarters for designers, artists and creative businesses. Known as pop-up retail, these initiatives usually appear unannounced, quickly draw in the crowds and then morph into something else.

York’s first design based pop-up shop ‘Product’ opened its doors on Thursday 8 December. Product showcases creative talent from York St John University alongside nationally recognised designers and makers providing an opportunity to exhibit, sell and market test their products.

Jenny Hall, Creative Business Development Manager at York St John University said:

“If new products can come and go, why can't the stores that display them do the same? The concept of pop-up shop adds to retail the fresh feel, exclusivity and surprise that galleries have been using for years to the delight of customers. We are delighted to be able to offer our graduates an exciting new space in which to exhibit and sell their products.”

Product is the first of a series of events that York St John University is producing in collaboration with Bar Lane Studios. Over the next 10 months Product will showcase the very best art, performance and design talent emerging from York St John University. It will also showcase award winning designers such as Turner & Harper and their unique brand of quality crafted products for the home, fresh new furniture as well as Christmas decorations.

On Saturday 17 December experienced and novice designers have the opportunity to work with some of the best designers in the business to develop their own Christmas decorations using the latest portable laser cutting technology provided by The Pod. To book, please contact Bar Lane Studios on T: 01904 635563.

For more information about Product or to buy online visit www.yorksj.ac.uk/creativebusiness