Show: Interactive Furniture Pop-Up Shop

Challenge: Many small cities and towns in rural British Columbia are currently undergoing significant growth, with larger developments rapidly taking over the densest urban areas. This growth is occurring simultaneously with the decline of the small business market, resulting in many small businesses shutting down and selling off their assets. There is room in the transition management structure of these old and new businesses for Pop-Up Shop development.

Solutions: A proposal was presented to a small, family-owned shoe store in Kelowna that was closing down and selling its locations. The proposal suggested that a popup show should occupy the store and showcase an art exhibition featuring interactive electronic furniture made from reclaimed construction materials. In stagnant business climates, the transfer of retail business locations can be slow and may take months or even years. We also collaborated with local indigenous leather workers to present their handmade moccasins, which are typically sold at the local farmers market.

Results: Presentation of a successful fringe art show in the heart of Kelowna [a normally cost-prohibitive commercial zone].

Skills Needed: Artwork fabrication, Carpentry, Polymer Applications, Creative Electronics, Transfer of Lease co-permission negotiations and business establishment. Pop-Up Shop commercial operations and presentation package, etc.
Location(s): Kelowna BC
Date / Duration: 2022
Team: Morgan Rauscher.