Corner Shops & and Portals into Other Worlds

Come and join us at The Spark to celebrate Corner Shop & Portals into Other Worlds exhibition with festive drinks and mince pies.

Inspired by Babita Sharma’s book The Corner Shop, this project is a collaboration between Southampton Forward, artist Darryl Vydelingum, Southampton Solent University, Winchester School of Art and local shopkeepers, celebrating the cultural and social role of corner shops across Southampton.

This exhibition captures the stories of seven local corner shops, creating a living archive of these unsung heroes of British life. Beyond providing daily essentials, many of these shops—often run by families with diverse heritage and from a range of backgrounds —connect us with cultures and traditions.

As part of the project, students from Solent University and Winchester School of Art have created a fashion show inspired by corner shop customers. These “visual love letters” capture how corner shops support every part of daily life—from work and fitness to nightlife.

The exhibition celebrates the stories of Naz Sklep, Rafiqs, Asian Cash and Carry Halal Meat Center, Brasiliero, Tan Market, Maynards, and Polo Market through fashion photography, signage inspired by their place in local communities, and accessories created by the Southampton Women’s Integration Group.

📍 The Spark Atrium, Solent University, East Park Terrace, Southampton SO14 0YN

This project was produced by Southampton Forward and supported by our partners: Southampton City Council, University of Southampton, Southampton Solent University, GO! Southampton, Mayflower Theatre and Paris Smith, with thanks to Arts Council England, National Heritage Lottery Fund, and Esmee Fairbairn Foundation for their support.

We look forward to seeing you there!

As well as the celebration event on 3rd, the free exhibition runs from Monday 2nd - Wednesday 4th December and open to the public 9.30am - 5pm

Host or Publisher Southampton Forward