Even though Kochiites prefer to hangout indoors, in the comfort of air-conditioned halls, thanks to the rising temperatures, they sure are not going to miss the open air flea market, ZookStreet III. All set to entice shopaholics and art aficionados with an exhaustive list of entrepreneurs and art exhibits, the Zook team takes this year’s gala outside for the first time. “Of late, Kochi’s fun quotient has been going downhill with restrictions on gigs and parties. Our aim is to create an event everyone enjoys—whether they’re a friends group from a college/office or a family,” begins Rebekah Thomas, one of five entrepreneurs organising the fete.
Embracing hospitality
So, why hit the grounds instead of a nearby mall? They’ve curated a wide range of products, some of which are not easily accessible in the city throughout the year. The 26-year-old elaborates, “There are brilliant designers including brands like Alappuzha-based Aysha Couture participating, so there’s no dearth of summer clothing options. While food stalls—like Bake Castle and Crust ‘n’ Crumb—dominate the list, the grounds will also see names like Kottayam-based home decor brand Pleats & Pockets, and an online community of artists specialising in handmade greeting cards and posters called Papercrow.
Gathering dreamers
Two years of experience has definitely helped the team better understand Kochi’s tastes as they’ve also roped in over 15 artistes to perform at the event. “While the variety of products and competence in price has always been a factor, we’ve noticed that Kochi comes in for the overall experience,” the youngster explains. The flea market brings in debut performances by bands like Madras Mail (experimental fusion) and Krameri (ambient), alongside Kochi-based artistes like DJ Gino.
Trail of colours
A year-old artist platform The Creators Lounge joins the organising team of ZookStreet III. Led by Asma Nazar, their exhibition titled The Inevitable Serendipity features the works of ten artists including that of renowned figures like Vinod Laxman and Thomas Kurisingal. “We’re also experimenting with the works of three of our artists—namely Sreejith P A, Fathima Hakkim and Anie George—by installing sensors to detect a viewer’s presence,” informs the young art director. Details:
facebook.com/TheCreatorsLoungeIN
On April 1 - 2. At Choice School. Details: 7907315485