Blakney TericaIn an exciting move, home furnishings retail giant West Elm has introduced West Elm LOCAL Experiences, marking a significant expansion of the company’s commitment to fostering creativity in local communities and boosting local economies. This innovative initiative invites customers to immerse themselves in the world of artists and artisans, offering them the chance to gain hands-on skills and insights that embody the essence of local culture and craftsmanship. Building on the success of West Elm LOCAL, which debuted in 2013 and provided a platform for over 1,000 makers, designers, and artists to showcase their work at West Elm stores, West Elm LOCAL Experiences takes the concept to a whole new level.
Unveiling the Essence of West Elm LOCAL Experiences
Mo Mullen, Vice President of Business Development at West Elm, states, “The success of our West Elm LOCAL program, coupled with our customers’ interest in engaging experiences, inspired us to further invest in creative entrepreneurs and local communities.” This profound commitment translates into authentic, curated experiences that match the talents of local artisans with the interests of West Elm customers. These immersive opportunities offer a deeply personal connection to a destination city or hometown, all through the creative lens of a local artist.
Exploring the Impact of West Elm LOCAL Experiences
West Elm LOCAL Experiences isn’t just about providing customers with creative workshops; it’s a dynamic force that positively impacts both local communities and the broader creative landscape.
Enriching Local Economies: By partnering with local artisans and makers, West Elm injects much-needed support into small-scale creative businesses. These collaborations offer a sustainable income source, allowing artisans to thrive and continue crafting their unique products. As a result, these economies flourish, and the local communities benefit from increased economic activity.
- Cultural Exchange: LOCAL Experiences enable cultural exchange between customers and artisans. Customers gain a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances and traditions specific to each locale. They learn not only the artistry but also the stories and histories behind the craft, fostering a greater appreciation for diversity and craftsmanship;
- Inspiring Creativity: These experiences serve as a wellspring of inspiration. Attendees leave with more than just a new skill; they leave with a fresh perspective on creativity. Whether it’s through metalworking in Austin or sketching in Charleston, participants tap into their artistic potential and often find themselves pursuing new hobbies or even creative careers;
- Strengthening Community Bonds: LOCAL Experiences create bonds within communities. Attendees connect with fellow participants, forging friendships that transcend the workshop. Additionally, these experiences often include communal elements, such as shared meals or gatherings, further enhancing the sense of community;
- Supporting Sustainable Practices: Many LOCAL artisans prioritize sustainability and ethical production. Through these experiences, customers gain insight into the importance of sustainable practices and how they can incorporate them into their lives, from choosing eco-friendly materials to reducing waste.
In essence, West Elm LOCAL Experiences is a testament to the power of conscious consumerism and community building. It’s not merely a retail initiative; it’s a movement that empowers local artisans, educates consumers and fosters connections that extend far beyond the workshop. It’s about making a difference, one creative experience at a time.
Embark on Your Creative Journey
Starting March 13, customers can book a West Elm LOCAL Experience with one of five LOCAL makers in select markets, including Austin, Brooklyn, Charleston, Detroit, and Savannah, through WestElm.com. The sessions, priced starting at $130, are scheduled to run from April through May 2018 in each market. The diverse experiences include everything from a metalworking workshop with a master welder in Austin to an indigo dyeing workshop in a Brooklyn artist’s studio. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store:
- Art Welding with Jack Sanders in Austin, TX: Dive into the world of metalworking at Jack Sanders’ studio, complete with a campfire happy hour and live music;
- Natural Indigo Dyeing with Shira Entis in Brooklyn, NY: Explore the art of natural fiber indigo dyeing in an intimate workshop;
- Draw Charleston with Raven Roxanne in Charleston, SC: Join an artist-led sketch session and discover hidden gems in historic Charleston;
- Cutting + Tasting Trays with Andre Sandifer + Abir Ali in Detroit, MI: Get creative at a fire station turned furniture design studio;
- Punch Needle Textiles with Pamela Wiley in Savannah, GA: Create your own hand-tufted textile composition during this captivating workshop.
A Chance for an Artful Getaway
To celebrate the launch of West Elm LOCAL Experiences, West Elm, in collaboration with local artist Raven Roxanne and AFAR Magazine, is offering an art and design-inspired weekend getaway to Charleston. The lucky winner will enjoy a two-night stay at the elegant Zero George Hotel, flight vouchers, a private city tour, Raven Roxanne products, a two-year subscription to AFAR Travel Magazine, and a West Elm gift card. Don’t miss your chance to enter the sweepstakes, beginning March 15, at www.WestElm.com/LOCALexperiences.
A Summer Full of Inspiration
The debut of the West Elm LOCAL Experiences program coincides with the arrival of the Summer catalog in customer mailboxes on March 20. To explore and learn more about West Elm LOCAL Experiences, visit www.WestElm.com/LOCAL.
About West Elm
Headquartered in Brooklyn, NY since 2002, West Elm has been on a mission to enrich lives through the power of design and human connection. This ethos permeates everything they do, from crafting unique, affordable designs for modern living to their commitment to Fair Trade Certified, LOCAL, and handcrafted products. With over 100 retail stores across the United States, Australia, Canada, and the UK, as well as a strong online presence, West Elm reaches customers worldwide. In addition to home furnishings retail, West Elm operates West Elm Workspace in the commercial furnishings industry and recently ventured into the travel and hospitality sector with the launch of West Elm Hotels. Stay connected with West Elm through their blog Front+Main and their active presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube. West Elm is proud to be part of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
Conclusion
In conclusion, West Elm LOCAL Experiences embodies a beautiful fusion of art, culture, and community. By fostering connections between customers and local artisans, West Elm has created an innovative platform that transcends traditional retail. These experiences are not just about shopping; they’re about delving into the heart and soul of a city, learning from skilled creators, and gaining a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship.
Whether you’re in Austin, Brooklyn, Charleston, Detroit, or Savannah, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in these captivating journeys. From the fiery creativity of metalworking in Austin to the soothing indigo dyeing in Brooklyn, each session offers a unique glimpse into the artistic tapestry of its locale.
Furthermore, West Elm’s collaboration with AFAR Magazine and artist Raven Roxanne adds an extra layer of excitement. The chance to win an art-infused getaway to Charleston, complete with luxurious accommodations and a private city tour, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to enhancing lives through design and experiences.
As the Summer catalog arrives, it’s the perfect time to explore West Elm LOCAL Experiences. It’s a testament to the brand’s mission: creating affordable, modern designs while celebrating local and handcrafted products. By doing so, West Elm strengthens communities, enriches lives, and fosters a deeper connection to the places we call home.
So, embark on a journey of creativity and discovery with West Elm LOCAL Experiences. Unearth the hidden treasures of your city and support the talented artisans who make it vibrant. It’s more than shopping; it’s a cultural adventure that leaves you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the artistry that surrounds us.
