Artists Opened The Inconvenience Store in Seattle
A former 7-Eleven now hosts over 70 local artists displaying work ranging from $1 to $10,000.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Fine Art
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On September 19, 2026, artists Lilia Deering and Mary Anne Carter launched The Inconvenience Store, a pop-up art gallery in a converted Seattle 7-Eleven. The exhibit features unique creations from more than 70 local artists.
Why it matters
The curators aim to make art purchasing more approachable for the average person while helping to revitalize the downtown Seattle area. By transforming a mundane retail space, the project encourages public engagement with local creativity.
The gallery features work from more than 70 local artists, with individual item prices spanning a wide range from $1 to $10,000. These items include conceptual pieces such as ceramic eggs with faces and pre-tangled USB cords.
The players
Lilia Deering
Lilia Deering is a Seattle-based artist and curator who co-founded The Inconvenience Store.
Mary Anne Carter
Mary Anne Carter is a Seattle-based artist and curator who co-founded The Inconvenience Store.
The details
Curators Lilia Deering and Mary Anne Carter invited local contributors to create abstracted, artistic interpretations of typical convenience store items. The exhibit currently occupies the retrofitted shell of a former 7-Eleven storefront.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: The Inconvenience Store officially opened.
Mid-2027: The exhibit is scheduled to close.
Industry Dynamics
This project reflects the broader trend of converting vacant commercial real estate into temporary, community-facing art spaces. By choosing a former 7-Eleven, the curators leverage familiar retail architecture to challenge traditional gallery elitism.
Residents can visit the gallery in downtown Seattle to view or purchase art at a wide range of price points. The store remains open to the public through mid-2027, offering a unique shopping experience.
The takeaway
This project demonstrates how low-cost, everyday items can be reimagined to bridge the gap between niche art and the general public. Visitors are encouraged to consider the artistic value of mundane objects before the installation concludes next year.
Further reading
Explore more local creative projects in the Seattle Fine Art section.
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Do you believe unconventional pop-up art projects help improve the character of your local downtown area?
