This makes me feel Amused
Sparrow Mart
In the summer of 2018, a supermarket filled with 31,000 felted groceries opened in downtown Los Angeles. This immersive installation was part of a series by UK artist Lucy Sparrow, who has debuted exhibitions in London, New York, and Beijing. Each pop-up store is designed to resemble a traditional grocery store, complete with hand-painted signs, […]
In the summer of 2018, a supermarket filled with 31,000 felted groceries opened in downtown Los Angeles. This immersive installation was part of a series by UK artist Lucy Sparrow, who has debuted exhibitions in London, New York, and Beijing. Each pop-up store is designed to resemble a traditional grocery store, complete with hand-painted signs, and every item is available for purchase. The selection includes fruits, vegetables, sushi, fish, meat, frozen food, cleaning supplies, and much more. Sparrow and her team spent over a year sewing all the groceries together. The felt grocery store serves as a commentary on the constant threat faced by small businesses from rising rent prices and larger corporations.
Contributor notes
What is surprising, refreshing, most interesting?
What makes "Sparrow Mart" such an interesting piece is the meticulous attention to detail that went into every product displayed on the shelves. This attention to detail enhances the immersive aspect of the exhibit. Additionally, the layout of the store encourages visitors to interact with the space as if it were a real grocery store, allowing them to shop as usual. One of the most intriguing aspects of this concept is the sense of engagement it creates by presenting a familiar space in an unfamiliar way.
Key Insights? What can we learn from this?
People love a twist on something familiar. Having a recognizable space provides a sense of comfort, allowing people to begin the experience. However, it is the revelation that keeps them engaged and moving forward. "Sparrow Mart" was designed with the intention of exploration, giving people the freedom to experience the grocery store at their own pace -- another reason why it worked.