A few months ago, I visited BOXPARK in Shoreditch (outside the station), which is marketed as "the world's first pop-up mall." (1) This shopping area is made from shipping containers and was opened to the public at the end of last year, and they state on their official website that they will remain there for five years. The shop hosts various outlets for fashion and art and is an attraction for near-by workers to grab a quick meal and sit outside during the lunch hour.
The shops run along street level and an additional level is located up a flight of stairs. The level off-ground contains additional shops, small food stands, and seating. BOXPARK is very much in line with the artistic style around the Shoreditch area, and according to their website, they only select independent vendors that appeal to the art/culture and that can offer something to the community.
I enjoyed the atmosphere at BOXPARK, and the top row of shipping containers had pop-inspired artwork lined between the rows of shops. The artist behind these is known as "Pure Evil", and the art features faces of women and uses bright colours and 'tears' running from their eyes to create an illusion. According to "Pure Evil", the tears symbolise "the product of broken dreams and love." (2).
BOXPARK is worth a visit. View my photographs below to be inspired.
BOXPARK spans the street in Shoreditch, as taken from the stairs at the top.
Artwork by 'Pure Evil' lines the sides of the containers, and seating area for one of the cafes and a cafe is located ahead.
Pop-inspired artwork by 'Pure Evil' on the sides of the containers.
Looking at the eyes and the image does play with my own eyes. I do love these paintings by 'Pure Evil'.
Shipping containers double up as shops on the top level of BOXPARK.
1) Box Park Website. http://www.boxpark.co.uk [May 27, 2012].
2) Holloway, Ruthie. Pure Evil artworks now up at Boxpark. http://www.theglassmagazine.com/forum/blog_post.asp?TID=4000 [7 March, 2012].
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