Independent gifts pop-up launches in Manchester's Corn Exchange in time for Christmas
Eclektika, a vibrant collective of independent artists and makers, has opened a pop-up shop in the Corn Exchange’s Glass Box on Fennel Street, facing the Skate Manchester skating rink.
The pop-up, running until 21st December, offers visitors a colourful wonderland of unique, handmade pieces perfect for some feel-good Christmas shopping.
Founded by Lexie, a former NHS nurse, Eclektika began as a platform to help female artists build their profiles and has grown into an inclusive community of over 40+ creatives. The goods available for purchase include original art, prints, illustrations, handmade jewellery, candles, screen-printed tees, accessories, textiles and sustainable vintage clothing - all created by independent makers with a particular focus on championing female, non-binary, disabled and LGBTQIA+ creators.
Eclektika is a unique shopping experience for those who seek to fill their homes and hearts with art and artisan-made gifts. Supporting creatives and artists from Manchester and the surrounding regions, the shop showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of unique, handcrafted pieces. Each item is made with care and creativity, offering customers the chance to bring home something truly meaningful and locally inspired.
Visitors can browse Eclektika’s pop-up from 9am - 5pm, Monday to Saturday, with late-night shopping available until 7pm on Thursdays. Perfect for those visiting the Christmas markets or enjoying an evening meal at Corn Exchange Manchester afterwards.
Who are the traders at Eclektika?
Some highlights:
● Dave Draws - Dave is a Mancunian artist, known for his iconic doodle illustrations of maps of Manchester. Find his maps as prints, pillows, mugs and more for sale.
● Christina Made It - A Salford-based self-taught jeweller who learnt the basics at a silversmith club, who hand makes gold and silver jewellery in a striking, minimal style.
● Pixiecraft - Pixiecraft is a joyful, creative brand celebrating the beauty of the natural world through colourful, nature-inspired illustration.
● Audrinka Art - Audrey Szabo, a Stockport based illustrator, seeks the joy in everyday life by creating illustrations of people, pets and places local to her.
● Georgia Louise Accessories - From playful ginghams to silky satins, Georgia handmakes unique textile creations from hair scrunchies to makeup bags.
When?
9am - 5pm from Monday - Saturday until 21st December. Late night shopping on Thursdays until 7pm!
Lexie, owner & founder of Eclektika, said: “Every piece here has a story, born from the hands and minds of Manchester creatives. I love knowing that when someone buys from us, they’re supporting a real person in their creative dreams as well as a small business. Please stop by if you’re in the area and help support all of the talented local makers that I’m so proud to be able to shine an extra light on”
Georgia Steele of Georgia Louise Accessories said: “Working with Lexie is a dream. The pop-ups have allowed me to showcase my products to customers I would never have access to. Everything runs smoothly, and it has been a great income for my small business! I’d recommend it to all small businesses that want to branch out from local markets.”