APOC store earlier this month announced that they would be creating APOC grants in order to help those in the art and design world. APOC Store is an online Fashion & Art marketplace that sources “progressive and consciously-created pieces,” from creatives worldwide. According to the store, APOC stands for, “a combination of the words of “Anthropocene” and “epoch”;… We live in the Anthropocene – a time where human activity dominates the world…with enormous consequences. As a result, a new generation of creatives has emerged who care…and want to make a difference.”
APOC Store’s Journey Towards Innovation
APOC’s mission has always consisted of spreading awareness and spotlighting progressive artists; whether that be through fashion or art. Furthermore, the pieces they sell come directly from the artists they work with. Therefore, designers can receive commissions and also be more sustainable. Some artists and brands that APOC has worked with are Freya Douglas Feurguson, Corrina Goutos, and Bloke. So it comes as no surprise that they are furthering their mission to help more aspiring creatives!
With this grant, APOC’s intent is to open up new opportunities for creatives. Besides this being a good cause, it also creates space for conversation. The art and fashion world tends to show favoritism. For young creatives, it can be hard to receive recognition, due to the fact that they’re in the shadow of those with more connections and clout. Unfortunately, even if these creatives have the most unique pieces it still comes down to status, social class, and who you know. With APOC Store’s grant, they hope to, “break down the financial and systemic barriers to entering the industry and starting your own brand/practice…”
How the APOC Grant Works
For those who were interested in applying, you had to complete the following:
- Send a bio, your social media, and website information
- A list of short and long-term goals
- Grant fund plans
- Images of your current work to apply@apoc-store.com
Applications opened up April 7th and closed on April 16th. Please keep in mind APOC Store is London-Based. The creatives selected will receive a £1,000 GBP ($1,300 USD) grant to expand their brand. They also will get the opportunity to sell their work on APOC Store’s Website and a six-month mentorship from APOC’s team and community.
A Brighter Future
As APOC store continues to create spaces and opportunities like this, it will be captivating to see what other markets will try to follow suit. Fashion creatives and artists always need room to grow and improve, so it’s nice to see someone taking initiative in order to make it happen.
Know of some more opportunities for creatives to showcase their work? Are you impressed with APOC’s mission to help build spaces for creatives? Let us know on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Pinterest !