onionbagblog

Published as part of the Hidden Kiosks Project.

The Hidden Kiosks have offered many different creative challenges to many different people. We are confident in saying that an application from the Two Squares design studio is the first pitch that incorporates the use of a hairdryer in the public space.
 
Two Squares is a fresh design duo made up of Alex and Mike. Working out of Colchester and Wivenhoe, as well as impressive online presence, the plan is to open up their work for local families to participate in at the Hidden Kiosks.
 

“We would like to take over Kiosk 1 to run our little design studio. We would be in the space every Saturday and Sunday throughout July making and printing cards, sewing plush toys and printing T-shirts and bags.”

This is a very practical approach, with Two Squares proposing to open up their studio and work with local people to create their products:

“The draw of our takeover is that the general public can come along and pick any of our designs, then print the work themselves. They can print a t-shirt, bag or choose from our selection of cards.”

 
What we particularly like about this application is the possibility of taking the Two Squares project further out into the Colchester community. If a weekend residency at the Kiosks is a success, Two Squares are then confident of building upon this creative experience around the town:
 

“We currently run Two Squares as an online store and would continue with this venture with the possibility of another pop up shop similar to this Take Over proposal in the future. We are also looking into a stall at the Wivenhoe May Fair, as well as something similar at Colchester Free Festival.”

 
But it’s not all about the means of production for Two Squares. Sometimes you need a little light entertainment to help keep those Colchester hyperlocal wheels of industry ticking over:
 

“Mike and I also dabble in the ukulele, so there may be some impromptu performances from Two Squares for passers by to enjoy.”

 
And how does the hairdryer fit into all of this?
 

“We would need a hairdryer in the space to dry the rack.”

 
Any other business?
 

“We’ve really enjoyed the project so far and you’ve picked some brilliant winners, we’d love to be one of.”

 
This is either a very subtle act of trying to curry favour with the judges, or recognition that the Hidden Kiosks Project has helped to spread some creative diversity in Colchester.
 
We think it would be rather wonderful if the hairdryers had a little part to play with the project.