Whimsical Felt Food Bodega: Lucy Sparrow’s ‘8 Till Late’ Installation

by Jasmine January 2, 2023

written by Jasmine January 2, 2023

Felt Food Bodega: A Whimsical Art Installation by Lucy Sparrow

The Concept

Imagine a bodega filled to the brim with groceries, but instead of being made of edible ingredients, everything is meticulously crafted from felt. This is the enchanting creation of artist Lucy Sparrow, who has transformed mundane packaged foods into whimsical works of art.

The Artist

Lucy Sparrow is a British artist known for her unique and playful creations. Her previous exhibition, “The Cornershop,” featured a fully stocked convenience store made entirely of felt. For her latest project, Sparrow has brought her felt food concept to New York City, opening a pop-up bodega called “8 Till Late.”

The Bodega

Located at the Standard, High Line, “8 Till Late” resembles a classic convenience store, complete with a faux meat counter and shelves lined with familiar boxes and cans. However, upon closer inspection, visitors will discover that everything inside is made of soft, colorful felt.

From pregnancy tests to Tootsie Rolls, cereal to candy, Sparrow has meticulously recreated a wide range of everyday grocery items. Her attention to detail is remarkable, capturing the iconic branding and packaging of well-known products.

The Inspiration

Sparrow’s inspiration for her felt food creations stems from her fascination with the emotional response evoked by packaged goods. She believes that the familiarity and nostalgia associated with these items can trigger a sense of joy and comfort.

By transforming these everyday objects into soft and playful felt replicas, Sparrow disarms their “harsh and ugly” aspects and invites viewers to engage with them in a new and unexpected way.

The Experience

Stepping into “8 Till Late” is like entering a surreal and offbeat world. Visitors can wander through the aisles, admiring the intricate felt creations and marveling at the sheer volume of items on display.

Sparrow will even be on hand to make “sandwiches” for visitors, using slices of felt bread, deli meat, and cheese. These playful interactions add an extra layer of whimsy to the experience.

The Impact

“8 Till Late” challenges our perceptions of consumerism, art, and even fake food. It invites us to question the nature of our relationships with everyday objects and to appreciate their hidden beauty and absurdity.

Whether you’re a fan of art, felt, or simply enjoy the unexpected, “8 Till Late” is a must-see exhibition. Immerse yourself in a felt-filled world and let Lucy Sparrow’s whimsical creations spark your imagination.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.