Babushka x Paints of Hannah is a project born from the desire to make art more accessible and to work collaboratively with another small business in Northern Ireland. Following a lack of exhibition opportunities post-pandemic and ongoing restrictions heavily effecting the hospitality industry, Hannah (Paints of Hannah) and George (Babushka) wanted to reimagine how we engage with art.
The collaboration consists of original paintings, giclée prints, sweatshirts and tote bags, all of which can be viewed and purchased at the Café! We chose to use high quality materials, sourcing local and ethical products where possible. The original painting titled ‘Babushka’ informed the designs for the merchandise and were developed by Hannah, with assistance from her sister Katie.
Our collaborative image represents community, highlighting the importance and power of people united, moving through an experience together.
By utilising the unused café window, a small exhibition space was created, allowing the paintings and collaboration pieces to sit in the community by which they were inspired. It was important for us to install the work so that it can be enjoyed in a casual and relaxed manner, reflective of the café’s ethos. By bringing the paintings out of a traditional gallery setting, one is able to witness the cohesion between the work and it’s surroundings.
I truly felt the strength of community from my time in Portrush and the hub Babushka has established on the coast.
