A follow up to Scott’s post on PSFK yesterday, we’ve got some photos and more information on Free Store, the part cultural pop-up shop, part second hand boutique in Lower Manhattan. Created by artists Athena Robles and Anna Stein, the Free Store is a model of economic sustenance that we believe could be used (at least on a small scale) in cities worldwide.
The store operates in two different ways. First there is the free shopping method based on a barter and exchange system. Visitors offer their ‘useful’ possessions, like books and clothing, in exchange for items in the store. Some limited edition goods produced in-house by the artists are available for barter while supplies last.
Second, the Free Store takes donations and offers instore ‘credit’ in the form of ‘World Bills’. Contributors to Free Store will receive World Bills for donated goods and services. The bills can be traded or collected and later used for future barters.
Free Store will also host a range of events catered to artists dealing with the tough economy. Every Sunday from 2-5pm the store will present ‘Never as Good as the First Time’, a chance for artists and curators to meet with Director of Exhibitions for the Aljira Center for Contemporary Art, Edwin Ramoran. Edwin will schedule 15 minute meetings with only people he has never met in person to provide feedback on proposals and free professional development advice.
Free Store
February 19-March 22.
99 Nassau Street at Ann Street
Thursday – Saturday 12-7pm
Sunday 12-5pm
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Thanks for the follow-up Dave. I’ll have to find something to bring along and stop by for a visit myself.
February 20th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
Great spot. Dave. Thanks.
February 23rd, 2009 at 8:04 am
Thanks! My sister and I are going tommorw.
March 2nd, 2009 at 10:55 am
went to the store and donated items. I think it’s a terrific concept and the store looks great. I do wish the artists running it didn’t seem so put out by having to listen to the reactions people are having to their “store” — even though all reactions are positive.
March 2nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm