A not-for-profit designation, a board of directors, a new market manager, and a new home and logo; 2011 is a year of new beginnings for Portobello West market.
It kicks off with their two-day spring launch on March 26 and 27 from 11am-5pm at the Creekside Community Centre, the market’s new home. The space, created as part of the Athlete’s Village, provides a scenic view to the sea wall (and its walk by traffic) and is a five minute walk from the Main St. Skytrain Station.
The board of directors (Carlie Smith, Sarah Murray, Vaune Kolber, Koko Mongeot, and Joanne Hastie) felt it was time to bring fresh blood into the operation so Rosemary Marland Lennox has been hired to oversee the development of the five year old brand.
"I'm pleased to be a part of a creative and dynamic community such as Portobello West,” says Rosemary. “With its fantastic new location at the Creekside Community Centre, I look forward to helping the market become a vital and vibrant monthly destination spot for Vancouver shoppers and regional artists. The market will continue to be the opportune spot for those looking to engage with a pool of local talented artisans and, of course, pick up something a little precious to take home."
The first item of business, besides all the minute details of operating a fashion and art market, was getting a graphic designer to create a new logo that would speak to the planned improvements for Portobello West. The new logo will be used on 100 recycled t-shirt bags created by Me + You that will be given away to the first 25 customers at each of the market’s spring launch dates.
Here it is!:
Portobello West launched in 2006 at what is now the Plaza of Nations then quickly moved to the Rocky Mountaineer Station which housed the fashion and art market for the last four years. They also have a successful twice yearly show in Calgary and spent a year hosting Portobello East in Toronto. In 2010 Portobello West created a membership to heighten loyalty to the market. For $15 members receive 10-20% off at designated market vendors as well as free entry for a year. This program will continue through 2011.
Portobello West’s spring launch happens March 26 and 27 at the Creekside Community Centre from 11am-5pm, admission is $2. After this the market happens the last Sunday of every month (with two day markets in November and December). For more information please visit www.portobellowest.com.
