Blog by London Fashion Artist Elyse Blackshaw
If you're strolling through Manchester's Northern Quarter and catch a glimpse of Cass Art's vibrant storefront, you’ve likely noticed the new, hand-painted window art—a one-of-a-kind design that blends the worlds of fashion and fine art. I recently had the pleasure of working with Cass Art to create a painterly window that captures their creative essence, while drawing in passersby with a stylish, fashion-forward theme.
This project was all about merging artistry with retail appeal, and I’m excited to share the process behind creating this eye-catching installation.
About the Project: A Fusion of Fashion and Fine Art
Cass Art, known for supporting artists of all levels, wanted a storefront that not only reflected their dedication to the art community but also connected with the fashion-conscious crowd. The idea was to turn their windows into a canvas—a living piece of art that speaks to creativity, style, and craftsmanship.
My hand-painted window design does just that. Inspired by both the flowing lines of fashion illustration and the expressive brushstrokes of contemporary painting, this window art makes a bold, painterly statement. Using vibrant hues and fluid shapes, I crafted an engaging visual experience that mirrors the fashion world’s dynamism and Cass Art’s artistic spirit.
The Creative Process: Bringing the Vision to Life
To bring this vision to life, the process began with an in-depth conversation with the Cass Art team. We discussed how to incorporate elements of their brand identity while playing with a fashion-forward theme.
Here’s how the project unfolded:
Concept Development: I started by sketching various ideas, focusing on how to combine the bold, expressive nature of painterly strokes with fashion silhouettes. The design needed to be visually engaging but also accessible, pulling people from the streets into the store.
Color Palette Selection: We chose a vibrant, fashion-inspired palette— sleek blacks and bursts of metallic golds—that represent both the vibrancy of contemporary art and the chic allure of modern fashion. The use of high-contrast colors makes the window stand out from a distance.
Painterly Technique: The window design features loose, fluid brushstrokes that evoke the feel of live painting. Using custom paints that would adhere beautifully to glass, I recreated the effect of large, expressive brushwork, which contrasts with the precise, clean lines reminiscent of fashion illustration.
Installation: The final installation took several hours as I meticulously layered the design directly onto the storefront window, ensuring every detail was perfect. I worked in real-time, treating the window like a canvas, carefully balancing spontaneity and precision.
The Impact: A Showstopper for Cass Art
The finished window art does more than just decorate the storefront—it serves as a striking statement piece, reflecting both the creative energy of Cass Art and the elegance of fashion. It’s impossible to pass by without taking a second look. The flowing lines and bold colours draw in pedestrians, while the fashion-inspired elements create intrigue.
Why Hand-Painted Windows Are Perfect for Retail Spaces
Hand-painted windows offer a unique way for businesses to stand out. Unlike printed designs or vinyl decals, a hand-painted window feels personal, artistic, and one-of-a-kind. It allows the storefront to become a dynamic work of art, customised to the store’s brand and current promotions.
Some key benefits of hand-painted windows include:
Capturing Attention: A beautifully painted window is a surefire way to get people to stop, look, and walk into the store.
Enhancing Brand Identity: Custom artwork that reflects your brand’s essence creates a cohesive and memorable customer experience.
Seasonal Flexibility: Windows can be updated seasonally or for special events, offering a fresh and engaging storefront year-round.
Cass Art Fashion-Themed Window
Below are some photos of the completed Cass Art window display. The vibrant colors and fluid brushstrokes come together to create an elegant and inviting visual experience.
How to Commission Custom Window Art for Your Retail Space
Are you interested in creating a custom hand-painted window for your retail space? Whether it’s for a seasonal promotion, a new product launch, or just to add a fresh artistic touch to your storefront, I can help bring your vision to life. From consultation to design to installation, I handle every step to ensure your business stands out.
Contact me today to discuss your next project. Let’s transform your storefront into a canvas that tells your brand’s story - info@elyseblackshaw.com
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