There hasn't been much crafty news from the North West, but this is changing with the following article, which has just come in from Bronagh from Scrapperdapper. She's also contributing to the Resolution Art blog.
Bedlam is Derry’s newest and most unique shopping experience as it is the North West’s only Vintage and Retro indoor market. Situated in the beautiful ambience of the Old City Glass works building on Great James Street, the Bedlam traders invite everyone to join in their celebrations at the official launch party on Friday, October 8th at 6pm. There will be music and nibbles in every pocket of this gorgeous old church, followed by a fashion show featuring beautiful vintage couture.
I'll be selling under the banner HOT DANG! an expression I've loved since a wily old American photographer threw back a shot of Bourbon and responded "Hot Dang Betty Boop" to whatever it was I asked him. Have dropped Betty Boop as I don't want to be sued by a huge global organisation. So I'll be pedalling my wares (just in time for Christmas), which are beautiful vintage inspired quirky little pieces and gorgeous handmade cards, this weekend at the launch and I will do so every other weekend thereafter (about once or twice a month). My cards are free hand, stitched with machine, decoupage, collage, upcycled and unique. I studied Textiles eons ago at Art college and this is what I do! Each card is a piece of art and looks great framed, either as a series or by itself.
This particular series has been inspired by the fact that Derry has won the 2013 City of Culture bid. So, music, art and literature has been my influence, you could say saints, scholars and the odd sinner!**
The jewellery has all been ethically sourced and is kitschy, quirky and gorgeous!
So what to expect at Bedlam? One of the organisers, Elayne McNicholl, explains “Bedlam came about through a casual conversation between local vintage and antique fair traders, whose vision realised the need for the re-establishment of soul and imagination in the commercial body of the
North West”.
And indeed soul is what you’ll find. This wonderful market features a host of experienced specialists, artisans and creatives trading in a breathtaking array of all things kitsch, classic, couture and collectable as well as the fabulous, the funky and the fantastic:
‘Gladrags & Handbags’ are right on the pulse of the vintage trend, boasting beautiful clothes and accessories from the 1920s to 1980s. This stall is definitely a must for the girls, whether you’re a cool savvy young lady of 16 or a cool savvy young lady of 60 - there is something special here for you.
At Bedlam you will find that ethically sourced wares from ‘One World’, or gorgeous antique jewellery, clocks & objects d'art from ‘Family Jewels’ sit easily beside highly collectible paintings at ‘City Art’ featuring artists such as Maime Jellet.
Equally you can satisfy your satirical nature with some politically incorrect 'ABC illustrations', alongside vintage and reproduction toys at ‘Beyond Redemption!’ or discover rare books from Irish authors such as Pádraig Ó ‘Conaire at the Irish country living antiques store 'Deiseal’.
At ‘Hidden Treasures’ discover a treasure trove of antiques ranging from art, accessories, and decorative furniture. 'Kitten Caboodle' offers a range of beautiful art, reconditioned light shades and handcrafted textiles, and lots more knicknacks and whatnots.
An eclectic array of vintage, re-made and bric-a-brac goodies for your delectation can also be uncovered at ‘Rock-A-Hula’ whilst ‘The Recovery Room’ recovers furniture and ephemera from mid-century obscurity and gives them the chance to shine again.
Of course there could be no retro and vintage market without ‘Flip’ the stalwart and original of the North West’s vintage scene. At Bedlam, ‘Flip’ continues to maintain a 20-year tradition of providing the city with vintage, retro clothing and accessories from the 50s through to the 80s.
Bedlam is a young and exciting venue with beautiful things to suit all ages, pockets and interests. Each week will see new stock as the traders are always bringing in exciting finds, keeping it fresh. ‘Guest’ pop up stalls* such as ‘Hot Dang!’ (C'est Moi!) that change weekly will sell anything from amazing kitsch jewellery, to vintage clothes, or who knows what!!!
Whether you are an experienced collector or weekend shopper you will not be disappointed.
Bedlam welcomes ‘Cafe del Monde’ mark 2 into the fold, so, after snapping up treasures at the ‘Bedlam Market’ you and your friends can delight in your purchases over some delicious Bebe Café Del Monde treats.
The launch on the 8th of October is a thank you to all those people who have supported Bedlam so far and an introduction to all those people who have yet to experience Bedlam. A fantastic line up has been planned for the day including the pre-loved fashion-show stepping out in clothes from ‘Flip’ and ‘Handbags and Glad Rags’ and jewellery and accessories from some of the other exhibitors. So why not grab a friend and come down to check it out as seeing is believing! Local musicians will entertain and nibbles will sustain you as you avail of the opportunity to talk to traders about the strange unique and quirky things on offer and enjoy an exclusive preview of new stock! As in Bedlam be prepared for lots more.
The Weekend Market will open every Friday and Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm.
Admission is free and its close to William St car park. See you there!
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*A pop up stall is £60 for Sat 10am-6pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm - the trader needs to bring own stall. Unfortunately, pop up stalls are not available on a Friday at the moment but they're working on it. To keep stalls fresh, pop up guests are limited to 1 weekend a month. If anyone is interested they can contact me and I'll pass on the contact number.
**Purls would love to know more about the odd sinner... ;)
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