• The shop has only been around for 5 years. They were keen to create a space which didn't exist in Leeds. Commented that back then, Leeds had a pretty 'homogenised high street'. They provided something they wanted to see in the city for themselves.
• Their individual areas of interests involve product design (homewares, jewellery, ceramics, stationery) and printed matter (books, magazines, prints)
• Not only are they a shop for this kind of thing, but they also provide an events space to exhibit work from creatives. They made it clear that they wanted to engage with different audiences, not just have the same stuff all the time.
"If it doesn't give us a buzz, we won't stock it"
• This was nice to hear, because I had previously just assumed they were only concerned with trends, and what was deemed as fashionable. Obviously this will factor in as they are a business and want to make sales, but it was interesting that their passion for design was also part of it.
• The process in which something is made doesn't dictate it's success. E.g. screenprinting doesn't automatically make something good, as the design could still not work.
• Is the process of something appropriate to the design? Does the process enhance what you are trying to say or do?
Pricing
• You can price things systematically e.g. cost of materials, time, labour...
• What processes are used?
• Consider how people buy things (for themselves, gifts, etc...)
• Economic climate
• Locally sources? Imported goods? Factoring in the exchange rate
How do you choose what to stock?
• Developed over time. Looking for new and unique things.
• Considering trends in visual culture. What sells successfully and why?
• People even leave items along with their contact details to get feedback. Gives them time to look at and absorb a piece of work.
My thoughts
• I was really pleased to hear that what they do at CMV has derived from a personal interest in visual culture, whether it's lovely product design or interesting printed matter.
• They have not only created a space in which creative work and craft can be appreciated, but where a piece of that can be purchased and become part of someone's daily life, in their homes, their offices, etc.
• They also create opportunities to showcase the work of other creatives, as well as celebrating local practitioners.
• However, I do think specialist shops can sometimes have a tendency to be quite exclusivist, available only to those who can afford what they offer, or too trend-focused. But then again, I suppose they are a business and generating an income is important as well as supporting the makers of the items they stock.
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