Last night, I had the incredible opportunity to visit The Loom in Nottingham with a couple of other bloggers. We were greeted by the most amazing duo Samantha and James, (brother and sister - how cool!!), who kindly shared their journey with us and how they came up with The Creative Factory! The Loom is owned by Posedion Kumar who has given Samantha and James the platform to launch The Creative Factory! The pair were so lovely and even treated us to food and drink! (I would highly recommend the burgers!!) The passion that they have is mind blowing and it is very rare to find people who are so enthusiastic and go ahead to pursue their dreams! As soon as they started explaining the concept of their plan, I was sold!!!
The Loom is a bar/restaurant that opened last November but has recently been refurbished to entice the creatives around Nottingham. It is located in the "heart of the arts" outside the Nottingham Contemporary. This is a perfect place to be as the Loom has recently created the Creative Factory which gives artists the opportunity to exhibit their work. The decor of the place is amazing - you have to visit just to see the outstanding work!! All of the artwork on the walls has been created by James and as soon as you enter, you are greeted by a collection of famous faces. The idea is that the entrance is monochrome with no colour so you feel like you are in a classic hollywood film - full of glamour!
As soon as you approach the stairs, you are hit with a pop of colour and an image of Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz (I am the biggest fan of this film and absolutely loved this painting!!). As the Loom and the Creative Factory evolves, the idea is that they collaborate with artists around the area and their work will be promoted on the walls of The Loom. I love this idea because collaborations not only help with self promotion, but they inspire and empower artists to be successful. James made the point that, "it is the artists and creatives that make the area cool", I 100% agree with this and there is definitely a lack of cool places for artists and creatives to promote their work but at the same time to hang out and socialise with other creative and inspirational people. The overall vibe of The Loom was relaxing and chilled, I felt welcomed and personally, I think the atmosphere of a place is vital!
As you move towards the back of The Loom, you are hit by the beautiful stained glass windows (see below) that are inspired by the most famous creatives. Each of the designs were intricate and full of colour, also made by James, how talented is he! If you are in the area - definitely pop in to see these! It's the perfect opportunity for an inspiration Instagram photo too! James explained that there will be a "Loominati" loyalty card for members, who will receive regular discounts.
We also got the chance to meet James' girlfriend Faye - a graphic designer/illustrator who creates the most beautiful drawings and illustrations. Below is an image of one of the drinks menus, Faye did all of the illustrations in both the food and drinks menu and we were blown away with the companies that she has worked for! (Skinny Dip being one of them!) I recommend that everyone checks out her Instagram - @fayefinn.
Not only were we spoilt rotten with drinks, wonderful company and live music - we also got to taste some of the food on the menu! I have to admit, my favourite by far was the selection of burgers!! They were delicious and I can't stop thinking about them!
After such a fabulous evening, I recommend visiting The Loom and The Creative Factory if you are ever nearby. It is a place of inspiration, a place for you!
3-5 High Pavement, Nottingham NG1 1HF
Thanks again to Poseidon, Samantha, James and Faye - you treated us like royalty and you are a credit to creatives!
Photo Credit - CQ Bloggers: Chloe, Lana and Abi
