Christmas 2020 saw Curated Aberdeen launch. An empty unit in the Bon Accord Centre that was to be transformed into a space for small businesses to trade. Table fees went to Charlie House and all was fairly good for a few years.
But as with most things, a change was needed.
Around the same time that Curated was fading, a new shop opened on Upperkirkgate. EDIT was and continues to be a collaboration between Smart Art Agency, Deemouth Artist Studio and Grays school or Art. A shrunken down Department Store filled with local creatives work. Pottery, printing, clothing, candles, jewellery and lots more.
In 2024 EDIT moved into the Bon Accord Centre and I plucked up the courage to ask if I could be a guest stockist. They said “aye”. And then I had the fear that my stuff wouldn’t sell! Needn’t have worried. We found our feet pretty quickly! The team at EDIT are meticulous. The shop looks great. Pete, Jo, Caitlin and Anna (and Ray when he was there!), keep things running smooth. Each stockist does a shift a month plus commission to keep the shop open and the lights on. A fair trade off for the sales, visibility and the validation it brings to my work.
Last year the team at EDIT were tasked with revamping Curated. After a brief stint in the old unit they moved next door to two units. One, a gallery and workshop space. The other, Curated Market. Bespoke tables give it a bit of uniformity, removing any feeling of a “car boot:” vibe. The sellers products are what make it unique. We’ve done a few weekends this year there and are returning in December (dates here).
The place is buzzing. It's proved that these spaces can be adaptable with work and creativity. Dozens of workshops, multiple artists hosted for Gallery space and plenty of businesses getting a leg up. I must admit I worried where the businesses were coming from. But slowly they’ve emerged - new food and drink people, jewellery, collectables, vintage clothing. It’s a real hub. This year there was the Big Vintage Weekend and the Art Bazar, and in mid November they’ll be hosting the Clay North East fair.
With EDIT across the mall showcasing and selling 30+ different artists work and Curated providing a busy hub its should be seen as a boost to the city. I know folk have came to see us because we are there. That will be true of others too.
Support them this festive season. Meet the makers. Hear their stories if you want. Or just grab some stuff and go on your merry way!
I appreciate being part of it. And look forward to being in Curated at Christmas!
For more information on EDIT see here:
https://www.editaberdeen.co.uk
And for Curated, keep an eye on FB and Instagram!
Cheers
Gary
