Selfridges is proud to announce its latest and most extensive campaign yet, shining a spotlight on the arts and aiming to make them more accessible to all. The retailer’s goal is to break down the barriers that can make art feel exclusive or intimidating by bringing it into the public eye in unexpected ways. With this initiative, Selfridges is not just a shopping destination but a hub for unique experiences as well.
For this ambitious project, Selfridges has joined forces with a multitude of artists who have contributed a mix of existing pieces and brand new creations. Customers have the chance to witness the artistic process up close and even participate in it themselves. Dubbed “State of The Arts,” this campaign will be live from now until March 30 at Selfridges’ locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and online.
Teaming up with respected institutions like the Ikon Gallery, Manchester School of Art, as well as prominent galleries such as Gasogian, Whitecube, and Pace, Selfridges is placing a strong emphasis on supporting both emerging and established UK-based artists.
In London, the iconic Oxford Street store showcases striking art installations in the shop windows, featuring the works of nine renowned artists commissioned by the Crossrail Art Programme. These pieces correspond to the artists’ works at specific Elizabeth Line tube stations, creating a unique experience for viewers. The London store’s Corner Shop is now transformed into an Art Store, seamlessly blending retail, customer engagement, and artist participation under one roof.
A highlight of the campaign is the captivating Art Tank suspended in a window at the Art Store, serving as a central point for various art events, classes, and artist residencies. Events like performances by Michele Lamy and Paul Kooiker, live model charcoal drawings by Alexandria Coe, and plasticine sculpting by Wilfrid Wood promise to engage visitors in unexpected ways. The introduction of an Art Trail within the store guides visitors through the surprising artworks scattered throughout the premises, serving as both a map and an audio guide.
In Manchester, Selfridges spotlights emerging talents from the Manchester School of Art like Bex Isley, Rebecca Halliwell-Sutton, and Omid Ehmirahmadi in the windows and menswear floors of the Exchange Square store. Meanwhile, the Trafford store showcases installations and sculptures by local artists Emilie Alstrup, Clare Calveley, Sophie Russell, and Kay Shah on every level.
In Birmingham, Selfridges has teamed up with the Ikon Gallery to present an installation by artist Perry Roberts that delves into the changing seasons, sparking discussions on climate change and the intersection of fashion and nature. The arts trail in this location features works by esteemed artists Richard Wilson, Gillian Wearing, and Joanna Vasconcelos. Additionally, drop-in art workshops for children and other seasonal activities are part of the events in this store as part of the State of The Arts campaign.
To learn more about the “State of The Arts” campaign and the artists featured at Selfridges, check out these links: Selfridges Campaign Details and Ikon Gallery Exhibition.
