Shop local this weekend at ‘Box On The Docks: Unwrapped’

Running from 10am until 5pm on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December, ‘Box on the Docks: Unwrapped’ will give visitors the chance to shop local as well as meet the artists and browse through their collections of original artworks in their respective pods.

Almost 20 artists including; Daniel Waggett, who from his LS Lowry inspired box, will be showcasing a wide collection of his works from paintings to photography, printed goods from local creative duo Jive Prints, wrapping paper from Lois Gilbert – co-creator of the World’s Smallest Disco box and original paintings, posters and prints by Mikesian Studio plus many more.

There will also be a number of experiential boxes including ‘Jam Jar Fairies’ by Studio McGuire – which sees digitally projected fairies hidden within an enchanted woodland mural designed by local creative team, Reform.  And ‘A Grand Life, Heard’ by Heard Storytelling which invites visitors to listen to significant true life stories told by Manchester’s older residents.

MSP’s Winter Trees by Manchester Street Poem combines an installation celebrating positivity and caring with a soundscape by MSP founders Karl Hyde and Rick Smith from British electronic music group, Underworld.

Visitors can explore the MediaCityUK gardens and piazza which has been transformed into a twinkling wonderland, featuring the magnificent digital Christmas tree, the insta-worthy shimmer wall and the newly created, enchanting Elf and Fairy garden.

Salford Food Bank Giftbox designed by Carbon Creative is also in situ to receive items such as coffee, jarred sauces and boil in a bag rice or pasta to support local families in need.

Josie Cahill, Director of Place for MediaCityUK said: “Box on the Docks: Unwrapped continues to support local artists and works well alongside the Makers’ Market where people can safely browse, soak up the festive atmosphere as well as support local and independent traders. So, wrap up warm, and head down to MediaCity this weekend to enjoy street food at the Makers’ Market, meet talented artists and admire the Christmas lights.”

For those unable to visit in person, a virtual gallery ‘Box on the Docks Unwrapped’ available on boxonthedocks.co.uk gives a sneak peek at the talented artists, including large painted murals, woodland scenes, phosphorescent designs and even a vibrant Love Chapel.

There is plenty of space to social distance and still soak up the atmosphere while enjoying the waterside views. Box on the Docks will be operating to a strict maximum capacity and asks all visitors to keep 2m apart.

The full list of artists taking part include:

• Manchester Street Poem: mcrstreetpoem.com / @mcrstreetpoem
• Heard Storytelling: heardstorytelling.com / @heard_stories
• Mikesian Studio: mikesian.studio / @mikesian.studio
• Nick Chaffe: nickchaffe.com / @nickchaffe
• Sally Marshall: @sallymarshallart
• Reform: reform.page / @reform.page
• Lois Gilbert: @loisapple
• Katie Tomlinson: katietomlinson.co.uk / @kt_tomlinson
• Jive Prints: jiveprints.co.uk / @jiveprints
• Tannah Cantrell: @tannahcantrell
• Venessa Scott: www.venessascott.co.uk / @venessascott_
• Lottie Bayliss: @lottillo
• Caroline Coates: carolinecoates.co.uk / @carolinecoates
• Helena Worthington: @helenaworthington
• Daniel Waggett: dwaggett.com/ @dwaggett

For further information about Box on the Docks or to explore the virtual gallery, please visit https://www.boxonthedocks.co.uk/