This one is a little off the track for us, but its worth a mention nonetheless as it is one of those unique events that gives a more than decent shot at bridging the whole public/commercial/underground gap, plus its aim is to helps promote young designers – and we’re all over that shiz. Sure, its not really low brow or whatever, but who cares? Its one of those events amongst the Loreal Melbourne Fashion Week that tries to do something a bit different, and to present work in a different way in order to engage the public in creative ways. With a great artist contingent, fashion designers and a whole bunch of other up and coming talent, it’d probably be a little remiss of us not to cover it for those who have a keen interest in the design and fashion side of things.

It will include a whole bunch of art installations, as mentioned, and we’ve heard nothing but good things about it all from previous years! The media release pretty much sums it all up –

“Penthouse Mouse (PHM). A temporary fashion, arts and events space that affords emerging designers and artists the opportunity to showcase their current work during the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF). More than just a shopping location, Penthouse Mouse brings together installation artworks, parties, live photo shoots and other random happenings in a collaborative, freeform and innovative format.

Hosting the launch of the LMFF Cultural Program of which PHM is the queen, this year will see the Mouse have its biggest launch event yet. Now in its fifth year PHM has become known for the place to learn of new trends and forge new collaborations by bringing artists, designers and Melbourne’s most discerning crowds together in one space for a week of varied events each as anticipated as the next. Throw into the mix, beers from the Coopers 62 Bar and a Lavazza Cafe for cheeky espresso cocktails or a latte while you shop and you might just be
tempted to move in for the week.

Designers in 2011 include PHM veterans; Leonard Street, Trimapee, Limedrop, Thom Finch, Alexi Freeman and Mecurialist along with welcome additions Maytide, Jolet, Upper Left Arm, Above, Flocks and more to be announced. Not forgetting that every outfit needs a little something extra, a central boutique environment will be dedicated to PHM’s much loved accessory design contingent. PHM will open on March 13‐14 specifically for the perusal and shopping of coveted AW collections from this talented design pack.

Artists involved in exhibition include Danae Valenza, Volker Haug, Matsuri Yamana, Ben Davis, Kirsty Hulm, Sam Stewart, Joel Zika, Juliet Rowe, Hidden Suns, Albert Comper, Sam Woud, Laura Woodward, Belinda Chen, Andrew Kupresanin, Dawn Tan, Justine Rouse and Kirstin McIver.

Heres a small preview of some of the cool work from the artists involved – but find more on the PHM website.

Who: Artists include Danae Valenza, Volker Haug, Matsuri Yamana, Ben Davis, Kirsty Hulm, Sam Stewart, Joel Zika, Juliet Rowe, Hidden Suns, Albert Comper, Sam Woud, Laura Woodward, Belinda Chen, Andrew Kupresanin, Dawn Tan, Justine Rouse and Kirstin McIver. Plus a huge range of young fashion designers and up coming talent.

Events:

Friday 11th March – 6-11pm – Opening Night – by Invitation only

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th – PHM ‘False Economy’ department store. Current ranges from our fashion and accessories designers – for two days only!  – Opening 10 – 7pm daily

Tuesday 15th March – 12 – 4pm – Summer 11/12 showings. Trade only for more info contact info@penthousemouse.com

Monday 14th March – Shut – Gone Fishing

Wednesday 16th March – 6pm – Live Photo shoot – Presented by SPOOK and CRAVE

Thursday March 17th – 6PM – Trimapee film showing and party

Saturday 19th March – LMFF Offsite runway – Doors open 7pm.
Tickets via Ticketmaster or lmff.com.au

Check out the Penthouse Mouse website for more info on this unique event!