New York-based bag and luggage brand Sprayground, best known for its graphic printed backpacks, has today, 16 July launched a 10-day pop-up at the “experiential retail” Future Stores space at 95 Oxford Street in London, running from until 26 July.
Located on the corner of Oxford Street and Dean Street, the brand is calling it ‘Sprayground’s Soho Playground’, and founder and creative force David Ben-David will be making an appearance during the second week of the residency to meet fans, collaborators and media.
Before welcoming David Ben-David to London, Sprayground will open its doors to local schools, colleges, youth organisations, charities, food banks and community groups as part of a new programme “celebrating creativity, opportunity and self-expression”.
Inspired by the longstanding community work of Sprayground’s Chief Operating Officer, James Ferrell, the initiative builds on Sprayground’s successful partnerships with schools and grassroots organisations across the United States, supporting young people through educational programmes, mentoring and charitable backpack donations.
Ferrell said: “Sprayground has always believed creativity can open doors. Everywhere we go, we try to leave something positive behind by supporting young people, working with local communities and creating opportunities through creativity, culture and mentorship.
“Beginning our London story in Soho by welcoming schools, charities and community organisations felt like the natural place to start.”
Taking centre stage in the pop-up space will be two sculptures conceived by Ben-David and created entirely from Sprayground luggage. Standing 3.7 metres tall, the ‘Luggator’ giant robot features a bespoke digital screen integrated into its ‘face’, bringing the installation to life.
Then there’s the ‘Sprayground Supercar’, a life-sized centrepiece built to the dimensions of a real supercar, which transforms one of Ben-David’s childhood ambitions into reality.
He said: “As a kid, I always dreamed about designing my own supercar. Sprayground has always been about turning imagination into reality, so building one entirely from our own luggage felt like the ultimate creative challenge.
“I also grew up fascinated by giant transforming robots and that sense of limitless imagination. ‘Luggator’ celebrates creativity, transformation and the belief that anything is possible.”
An invite-only opening party on the evening of 16 July will feature an exclusive live performance from acclaimed British rapper Mist, alongside music from DJ and producer Soraya DJ. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Mist during a special Sprayground bag signing following his performance.