National Museums Liverpool (NML) is urging customers to shop local this year to support artists, designers and makers in the city affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Following the government’s announcement on Monday on new national restrictions, the shops within NML’s museums and galleries will stay closed until at least 4 December but the online shop remains open.
Melanie Lewis, Executive Director of Commercial Enterprises and Visitor Engagement at NML, is hoping people will look beyond big brands and support local suppliers.
She said: “The pandemic’s impact on independent retailers has been catastrophic and the latest restrictions will see local independent businesses suffer immeasurably once again during what is usually the busiest time of year.
“Small businesses will be relying on every sale so it’s crucial that consumers shop local to secure jobs and support the local economy.
“We stock a specially curated selection of locally made, unique handcrafted goods including artwork, jewellery and homewares, offering the convenience of shopping small and local, within our own established online store.
“Profits from our sales help to support our venues, activities and programmes, which benefit millions of people every year. Not only that but when you support us, you’re also supporting local artists, designers and makers.
“Whether you’re looking for a Liverpool-inspired gift, handmade jewellery or unique art-inspired accessories, we have a great range of gift ideas.”
NML’s online shop stocks a great range of Tula Moon products including coasters, mugs and mounted prints of local landmarks such as the Super Lambanana and the Liver Building. Steph Dekker of Tula Moon is a Liverpool artist who has created a unique style of artwork. Known for her patchwork and knitted look designs, Steph is inspired by landmarks and architecture.
If you’re looking for something unique you can’t find anywhere else, check out Tracy’s Worrall’s exclusive range of skyline products created for NML to highlight the city’s iconic architecture. Tracy’s modern designs feature illustrations of buildings such as the Three Graces, Royal Albert Dock and the two cathedrals. Products include playing cards and wine glasses, as well as tea towels, bookmarks and more.
How about a Pride rainbow Liver bird pin badge? Created from an original watercolour painting by Rebecca Christian, the badge is hand made from stainless steel with a glazed finish, has a butterfly clip fastening. Rebecca, who lives in Crosby, is inspired by the beautiful surroundings of the nature reserves and stunning coastline. She enjoys using a combination of watercolour and digital illustration techniques and applies her artwork to a variety of gift, fashion and home ware items.
For the football fanatic, check out the mounted prints of Anfield or Goodison by Dominic Hinchliffe, a Liverpool based artist who creates beautiful images using Indian ink on paper. Alternatively, the free-standing metal crests of EFC or LFC by Liverpool family run company Plazma Metal Art would make an ideal gift.
Cute keepsakes by Lyver Design in Huyton include Super Lambanana keyrings and Liver bird ornaments. The ornamental Liver Birds are available in red, gold or silver and are the perfect home gift for a proud Scouser (or honorary Scouser).
NML also stocks a range of other gifts from books to bags, scarves to socks, as well as beautiful jewellery including a stunning silver pendant inspired by Great Wave, by Hokusai, set with pearl.
For all this and more, visit https://shop.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/
Alternatively, solve your gifting woes by surprising the person in your life who has everything with a membership, giving them access to eight museums and galleries. The gift that keeps on giving, a membership will encourage them to try something new, create unforgettable memories and allow you to spend some quality time together.
Individual membership starts from £30, family membership from £45 and lifetime membership from £350. Membership will give you free unlimited access to blockbuster exhibitions, including Linda McCartney Retrospective, which has been extended until 10 January, and the upcoming AI: More than Human exhibition, which opens on 22 January. You will also go free into the Planetarium and Old Dock Tours, get discounts in our cafes, restaurants, shops and online shop and receive invitations to special members-only events including private out-of-hours experiences and more.
For further information visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
