Pop-up printing event in downtown Holyoke for clothes, goods with local art continues Friday

Paper City Clothing Co. co-owner Carlos Peña talks with customers in August 2021 in Holyoke

Paper City Clothing Co. co-owner Carlos Peña talks with customers in August 2021 in Holyoke FILE PHOTO

Staff Report

Published: 12-12-2023 10:57 AM

Modified: 12-12-2023 12:42 PM


HOLYOKE — An ongoing pop-up project in which a screenprinter and local artists make clothing and household items that can be used as holiday gifts continues Dec. 15.

Paper City Clothing Co., run by screenprinter Carols Peña, is coordinating the printing of original art designs at 358 Dwight St., from 4 to 7 p.m.

The Fresh Pressed Holiday Print and Design pop-up, Peña said, hopes to draw some of the people who come to the city to shop at Holyoke Mall to also venture downtown.

“It’s a totally unique experience that supports talented local artists who don’t often get a spotlight handed to them,” Peña said.

Located downtown since 2016, Peña’s business specializes in the service of custom screenprinting, but also works with the community on free programs that advance the mission to uplift Holyoke youth and artists through culture and entrepreneurship.

Attendees at the Fresh Pressed pop-up can learn about the print and design process, and make their own items by selecting from an array of blank garments and household goods to pair with original art made in-house by Paper City Clothing and local designers, with limited-edition prints dropped specifically for this event.

Hasani Picasso, an independent hip hop artist and clothing designer, will be featured Dec. 15. Picasso was born and raised in Holyoke.

Previously, the Fresh Pressed event featured Springfield-based youth advocate and motivational brand creator Jex R and Joel Farms, a Holyoke illustrator who has done psychedelic-inspired mixed medium works.

Article continues after...

Yesterday's Most Read Articles

Northampton school budget: Tensions high awaiting mayor’s move
A rocky ride on Easthampton’s Union Street: Businesses struggling with overhaul look forward to end result
‘None of us deserved this’: Community members arrested at UMass Gaza protest critical of crackdown
Guest columnist David Narkewicz: Fiscal Stability Plan beats school budget overreach
More than 130 arrested at pro-Palestinian protest at UMass
Northampton’s lacrosse mom: Melissa Power-Greene supporting Blue Devils on and off the field

“Designing for clothing is an accessible medium that we’ve honed as a vehicle to spark community across Hampden County and beyond, and particularly to inspire youth to explore entrepreneurship and creativity,” Peña said.