Who we are:
Department Store & Co. has been set up as a Community Interest Company by Marcroy Smith and Kelsea Locke, the founder and manager of People of Print, one of the world's biggest communities dedicated to print media.
Introduction to the Project:
We are incredibly excited to announce the launch of our very first open-access space in the heart of Derby, a place where creativity, collaboration, and community can come together like never before!
After years of planning, we’re finally ready to bring our vision to life in a beautiful building on Sadler Gate. This space will not only serve as a retail platform for independent artists and makers but also as an open-access print studio and an inclusive event venue for workshops, talks, and community gatherings.
Sign up here to get discounts on the first workshops, free downloadable content, and follow our journey in building a creative hub in Derby!
Our Vision
We believe in the power of print, design, and creativity to bring people together. Our space will include:
Ground Floor:
A beautifully curated retail shop showcasing independent, and handmade goods. Every item will highlight talented artists and makers while creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
First Floor:
An open-access print studio offering workshops, print equipment for hire, and a welcoming space for creatives to learn, experiment, and connect.
Second Floor:
A multi-functional studio space for our day-to-day operations and a flexible evening venue for:
- Creative industry talks
- Spoken word nights
- Community meetups
- Industry-focused events
When we hit our stretch goal, we’ll also convert the basement into a darkroom, allowing us to offer even better screen-printing capabilities!
Why We Need Your Support:
In order to create a vibrant, inclusive space that will serve as a hub for creativity, connection, and learning, we need your help!
The £40,000 raised will go directly toward:
- Renovating and setting up all three floors: We need to transform this building into a welcoming and functional space, from removals, and painting the walls to setting up storage and shelving.
- Buying equipment: We’ll purchase essential print equipment and tools for workshops.
- Hiring staff: Your support will allow us to hire a small team of passionate staff members to run the space and support the community.
- Legal fees: The funds will cover legal costs related to the lease agreement and other start-up essentials.
Once we are operating, we aim to create an additional darkroom for screen printing in the basement, complete with the necessary equipment to expose, dry, and store screens. This will allow us to further expand our creative offerings and support the growing demand for print-based workshops.
What Your Support Will Do:
- Transform a blank canvas into a creative hub that will serve artists, makers, and the community.
- Provide access to state-of-the-art print equipment and creative workshops.
- Support local artists and underrepresented groups by providing them with a platform to showcase their work and connect with like-minded individuals.
- Give people a space to learn new creative skills, attend talks, and engage with industry leaders and innovators.
Rewards for Your Support
We’re so grateful for every contribution, and we’ve created some exciting rewards to say thank you!
- £10+: A “Support Local Artists” Pin Badge
- £45+: A “Support Local Artists” T-shirt, screen printed in our very own studio.
- £50+: A limited edition A3 Giclée print.
- £100+: Supporters package: including a print, T-shirt and pin badge.
- £150+: Premium supporter: including your name on our Founders Wall, a print, pin badge and Tshirt
- £200+: Diamond supporter: including your name on our Founders Wall, listed on our website as a supporter and everything from the Premium package!
- £500+: Sponsor: including Name at the head of our Founders Wall, Print, Pin badge, Tshirt and Annual report.
- £2500+: Core Sponsor: including Name as a sponsor on all signage and website, Name at the head of Founders Wall, Preferential rates on services, Press coverage, Meet the Team dinner, and Annual report.
(All rewards are available for local pickup or delivery—worldwide shipping available.)
Why Derby? Why Now?
Derby has an incredible creative community, and we believe this space will act as a catalyst for connection and innovation. We’re passionate about making art and design accessible to all, especially marginalised and underrepresented groups. With your support, this will be more than a building—it will be a home for creativity and inclusion.
How You Can Help
Pledge to our campaign. Every pound counts and brings us closer to our goal. Share our campaign. Help us spread the word on social media, email, or by telling friends! Join the journey. Follow us for updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes stories as we work to bring this space to life.
Sign up here to get discounts on the first workshops, free downloadable content, and follow our journey in building a creative hub in Derby!
Timeline and Updates:
- Campaign Start: March 2025
- Renovations Begin: As soon as we get our keys, we’ll start work on transforming the building.
- Opening Day: We plan to open the space on 28 April 2025, and we’ll keep you updated on our progress through the campaign.
Together, we can create something truly special in Derby—an inclusive, vibrant space where makers, creators, and communities come together to learn, grow, and connect. Thank you for being part of this exciting journey!