Concrete Hermit join Kingly Court

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Approximately a month ago I was invited to the launch party for cool independent label, shop, publisher, gallery and artist platform, Concrete Hermit's new venture; a second store and concept space in London's Kingly Court.

After missing the official launch party (due to LFW commitments), I met the lovely PR Martin and Concrete Hermit's founder, Chris Knight a couple of Saturday's later. Disappointed I'd missed the buzz of the grand opening, my first impressions of the store were fantastic and I began to relish the advantages of having a one-on-one in the store, which by this time had been well settled into and was looking superb.

Seamlessly combining the spheres of art, publishing, graphics and fashion, the Concrete Hermit store and central exhibition space is like a treasure trove for any creative, brimming with the coolest range of art and graphic magazines (seen since the demise of Borders in the UK - or perhaps even before that).

With each garment, book or magazine carefully selected, there is often a link between everything on display, with featured artists being invited to translate their graphics or logo from print to fashion through capsule collections of limited edition t-shirts. Concrete Hermit give their visitors an opportunity to experience something unique and interesting, informing them about the artists they work with, but only when asked so as not to overwhelm with their depth of knowledge.

Originally set up back in 2004, Knight established Concrete Hermit as the go-to destination for underground and emerging artists, setting up a gallery space and shop in East London's trendy Club Row, a stone's throw from famed private members club Shoreditch House. Hosting events and exhibitions every four to six weeks, Concrete Hermit was founded upon Knight’s fascination as to how art finds its way into society, whether this is via traditional galleries and museums, stickers or street graffiti, the internet and what we wear and consume.

“It’s a really exciting time for Concrete Hermit. With two locations we will be able to reach more people, expand our audience and achieve more exposure for the artists we work with. The idea is for people to use both venues for different reasons. The luxury of two differing locations means we can cross pollinate with what’s happening East and vice versa, driving people to both locations.” Chris Knight, founder.

To celebrate the launch, press have been treated to the print below and mine is now taking pride of place in my front room - thanks Concrete Hermit!