JESS HILL – MOTH DESIGN
What do you aim to achieve through Look. Stop. Shop?
The main aim is to uncover the connections that exist within Melbourne’s creative and business community. In doing this, we have created unconventional spaces for exhibitions and performances, giving store owners the opportunity to co-host exhibitions with performers and artists that usually do not work within the confines of a store. LookStopShop gives these artists an alternative form of exposure, supporting them via a somewhat unexpected and untapped support network. LookStopShop appeals to store owners as the concept works to drive a new audience through their doors.
What inspired you to take this project?
Taking on this project is an exciting opportunity to connect with Melbourne’s wider creative community and works toward supporting emerging artists while exposing involved businesses to a new audience. The idea of holding a live music performance in say, a Barber shop, which is a possibility with this project, is not an opportunity that presents itself each time you are given a brief.
What was the biggest challenge?
LookStopShop is exhibiting in 30 stores across the City of Melbourne, coordinating all involved in meeting that target can present a little bit of a challenge at times. It’s also an excellent way to get to know people.
What’s your favourite part of your exhibition?
Working with other creatives to achieve something together is always enjoyable, Tin&Ed were responsible for the styling and production of the images in the exhibition, seeing what they came up with for each band was something I greatly anticipated – and the results are fabulous! Also giving those performers who are yet to amass a collection of publicity shots the opportunity to be a little crazy with this shoot, and use the result further down the line. Of course, supporting the artists and the stores is the key driving point of this entire project.
What was the most surprising/weird artist-to-business connection you heard?
There were a few. I would have to say FORCES pairing with Fila was somewhat unexpected, though very much appropriate. Dressed head to toe in Fila, the band members evoked a monumental vibe within the brand. I think that Thrupence’s choice to be paired with the florist Pollon is beautiful.
BEN BROWNING
Why did you choose Prudence?
It’s been a central meeting place for me and many of my close friends and artistic collaborators. It has an unpretentious and unchanging atmosphere. It has stood the test of time I guess.
What do you aim to achieve through Look. Stop. Shop?
I guess Melbourne-grown and owned businesses with unique characteristics help to create an artistic identity within Melbourne and often harness and support Melbourne musicians and artists.
Where’s your favourite area in Melbourne to watch gigs?
I like to see gigs in the CBD in Melbourne. I like that it brings people together from their individual neighbourhoods. The Collingwood/Fitzroy area has been a great area for Melbourne bands to play gigs over the years, with places like The Old Bar, The Tote, The Empress and Bar Open providing opportunities for new acts. These are the kind of places the Melbourne music scene thrives on and couldn’t live without.
What else are you looking forward to for Melbourne Music Week?
Seeing Italian legends Goblin will be incredible, and I’m also excited about the reformation of Crayon Fields. Although I’m not sure they ever broke up.
