It all started with crossing paths with Bengi Kayra Artuç at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. Over time, we took part in joint projects and supported each other with both our aesthetic understanding and working discipline. Over the years, our exchange of ideas and support for each other's development created a strong friendship and cooperation that formed the basis of Potka Store.
In 2023, as we were leaving behind our third year as Studio Potato, our collections had multiplied and we needed a bigger space. At that time, Kayra was planning to leave the studio where she was working as an assistant and start her own business. Thus, the idea of creating a common space was born. Our choice of name was a reflection of this combination: Potka Store symbolizes the union of Studio Potato and Bengi Kayra Artuç.
Rasimpaşa Neighborhood was a place we have loved for many years and we thought it would be the most suitable area for our store. On July 7, 2023, we rented an old spot shop and started a renovation process that lasted about two months. With our own efforts and the support of our friends, the Potka Store you see today emerged.
In the beginning, we dreamed of creating a space where we could showcase only our own products, but when we realized that we had the same problems with other small brands and artists, we decided to open our space to them as well. Now, we proudly represent and showcase the products of 18 different brands.
Potka Store is not just a store; it is also a community space. Our desire to support other artists led us to organize design markets. In December 2023, we organized our first Christmas Design Market. The second market we organized in May was a great success.
After the good comments, the idea was born to spread our events throughout the neighborhood to enable our customers to meet more artists. For this purpose, we organized the Yeldeğirmeni Festival on September 7. We were met with great interest and now we are preparing for the Yeldeğirmeni New Year's Festival, which will take place on December 14-15. This event will offer a pleasant atmosphere full of gifts, treats and workshops.
Another important feature of Potka Store is that it is not only a sales space, but also a space for sharing art and production. With the workshops we organize, we have the opportunity to teach our own art and we offer other producers the space to share their knowledge and skills. We help brands organize their product launches and enjoy this space together.
Potka Store has come a long way in a short time. We have been featured in media outlets such as The Magger, Kadıköy Gazetesi and Kadıköy Telgraf. We opened a booth in Zorlu PSM and prepared the ground for two different events that await us. We will take part in Anababagünü on December 7-8 and Koç University's New Year's Market on December 16-17.
Potka Store is a space where anyone who cares about design can find something unique for themselves or their loved ones. With our passion for art and design, we are committed to grow and support more brands and artists. Potka Store is not just a shop; it is a dream, a community, a story. Endless thanks to everyone who has supported us so far. We hope this journey will continue for many years by growing and growing.
Stop by Potka Store to be a part of this story!