SWAG ( Shop Workshop Art Gallery)

We curated a Christmas pop-up shop in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

A joint venture between myself and artist Tasha Whittle, a labour of love, and a celebration of Manchester creativity.

A derelict corner unit, formerly the old SINGER sewing machine shop was bought back to life and SWAG was born!

SWAG was a collective of 13 core members all of whom were local artists, makers and independents. Together we transformed the empty space, incorporating instillation artwork, window displays, and shutter art.

SWAG gave Manchester makers a unique and affordable retail space in the creative heart of the city. We also wanted to offer an affordable alternative to the high street shopping and the stress of festive gift giving. We know that the story behind a piece of art is always worth telling and we wanted that to be part of the SWAG experience too.

The community that was formed from this project has become our creative family, a network of collaborators, thinkers and creators.

@TASHA_WHITTLE
@swag_mcr