Thursday 18th October saw the private view of the highly anticipated Don’t Panic Poster exhibition at the Bench concept store in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter.
Guests gathered in store to celebrate internationally recognised poster artwork from Banksy, Stik, Manchester’s very own Hammo and many more. An icon of the counterculture, the Don’t Panic Poster can be found decorating the homes and studios of art fanatics worldwide. Their online poster design competitions attract a great deal of interest from up-and-coming designers looking to make a name for themselves, giving Don’t Panic privileged access to rising stars from the international art scene. The exhibition is the first time Don’t Panic have exhibited their posters in the North West.
Guests were presented with an exclusive preview of the original posters showcased within the Bench Gallery, the formerly disused basement of the store now renovated to serve as an artistic hub and meeting point for like-minded creative’s to meet and mingle.
With live music from Rich Reason and complimentary drinks, guests were also treated to life drawing sessions encouraging attendees to participate and showcase their artistic prowess. Artists Hammo, Gog-Eye, Benjamino, Tasha Whittle and Laurie Pink also participated in the sessions, featuring life model Miz DeShannon.
‘Manc Maps’ especially designed and created by Hammo were available as part of a goody bag for each guest to take away an exclusive piece of original artwork.
The Don’t Panic Poster exhibition is now open to the public and runs until 10th November.
Each poster on display at the Bench gallery can be purchased online at http://www.dontpaniconline.com/posters/
The Bench Gallery will play host to a list of upcoming activity scheduled to take place. All in the Wrist, an exhibition curated by graffiti artist Moot will follow with a private view on 15th November 2012.
The Bench concept store & gallery can be found at 59 Church Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester. M4 1PW
www.mootart.com
www.benchselfmade.com
www.bench.co.uk
Tags:
Art Exhibitions Northern Quarter
