New ‘Inconvenience Store’ Sells Pre-Tangled USB Cords, iPhone That Only Plays a Single U2 Song, Other Things You Don’t Need

**The Inconvenience Store: A Quirky Art Pop-Up Transforms Seattle’s Downtown**

In an innovative twist on the traditional art gallery, two local artists have repurposed a former 7-Eleven in downtown Seattle into The Inconvenience Store. This engaging pop-up space is designed to showcase the whimsical and eccentric creations of over 70 local artists, with prices ranging from a mere £1 to a remarkable £10,000.

Open to the public since September 19, the shop diverges from conventional retail norms, presenting a playful display of items that one might not often consider essential. A variety of offerings include pre-tangled USB cords, a landline phone that connects exclusively to a single U2 song, and ceramic eggs featuring expressive faces. This unique gallery-cum-store is an artistic venture that aims to make the world of art more accessible to everyone.

Curators Lilia Deering and Mary Anne Carter, who previously gained recognition for their IKEA parody store “STÖR,” are at the helm of this imaginative project. They envision The Inconvenience Store as a space that reduces the intimidation often associated with art galleries. According to Deering, conventional white-walled galleries can be daunting for many, often lacking transparency in pricing and clarity on purchasing artwork.

Their objective is to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel encouraged to engage with and acquire art. “It is essential for an artist to be able to sell their work if they wish to support their artistic journey sustainably,” Deering explained. At The Inconvenience Store, the prices are clearly labelled, making the experience of purchasing art less formidable.

For this pop-up exhibition, Deering and Carter commissioned participating artists to craft “abstracted interpretations” of items typically found in convenience stores. This directive has resulted in some extraordinary pieces, including a yardstick candle that diminishes in size with use and a mug playfully marred by holes. As Carter noted, the artisans involved pour significant effort into handcrafting their pieces, producing truly unique items that stand out in a world of mass production.

The pair has a deliberate intention to subvert the notion of convenience store items as transitory. “We are flipping that concept on its head by offering items that can be cherished forever,” Carter stated. Their collection comprises one-of-a-kind creations that patrons are unlikely to encounter elsewhere, marking them as potential lifetime purchases.

A key aspiration for The Inconvenience Store is to contribute to revitalising downtown Seattle, making it a more inviting space for residents rather than just a thoroughfare for passing commuters. The curators believe that a vibrant art pop-up can serve as a draw for locals, creating a sense of community around artistic expression.

Participating artist Emma Kates-Shaw expressed her enthusiasm for being part of this initiative. Speaking to **The Seattle Times**, she highlighted the value of having a prolonged showcase for her work, stating, “It transcends being merely an art show; it’s a special opportunity to present my work to a broader audience for an extended period.”

As a testament to this creative endeavour, The Inconvenience Store plans to run well into mid-2027, offering continuous opportunities for local artists to display their innovative works. This pop-up not only celebrates the local art scene but also encourages public interaction with art in a more relaxed and enjoyable setting.

In a world increasingly dominated by online shopping and fleeting consumerism, The Inconvenience Store stands as a refreshing reminder of the beauty of creativity and personal connection. With its playful theme and commitment to fostering local talent, the store is poised to be a staple attraction in Seattle, encouraging both residents and visitors to appreciate the art it has to offer.