The Los Angeles gem known as Otherwild has a new location. The hybrid retail space and graphic design studio run by Rachel Berks and Marisa Suárez-Orozco opened last year in the thick of tourist mania on Hollywood and Highland. The first incarnation was a brave move for such an earthy outfit. But the new Echo Park location with neon sign suits it much better. On a block that's both tranquil and a bit rough around the edges, the new Otherwild is stocked like a cool kids clubhouse.
Inside, Otherwild has a laid-back witchy vibe balanced with a healthy dose of modern neons and iridescent plastics. The curated selections ride the line between art and craft. There is much to see here. From cast porcelain containers that feel like a nod to Rachel Whiteread, to swirly enamel rings gripping enormous chunks of pyrite, to that white neon Shangri-LA sign, these girls have an eye for simple beauty and West Coast style. The main criteria for what is sold here seems to be a solid belief in the pieces on the shelves and a desire to support the artisans that make the work. Otherwild feels like the kind of place that actually inspires real gift-giving, because everything here is so intimate and genuine.
The space itself serves as a great backdrop for the work in the store, with a hand-stripped wall and textured floor that give the whole place a warm and lived-in feeling. Dazzling smiles and the prettiest dog on the block welcomed us in; we were offered tea and were left to happily touch every single thing in the store with the most casual of chatter. It shouldn't be a surprise, therefore, that social events are a big part of Otherwild as well. Meanwhile, the graphic design studio operates at full steam, offering services that range from wedding invitations to web design. One gets the feeling that with a simple ask these ladies would be available to dive into whatever project presents itself.
Otherwild's new shop is open at 1932 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA.