Dumpster Diving Issue 2 with Pippy McClenaghan of Monty's

Champion of local creatives, taste-maker, and all around pleasant human behind Monty's NZ shares some insights with us.

Apr 27, 2024

In an age where Internet consumerism and consumption reign supreme, the importance of the in-person retail experience is oft left to the wayside. Few people focus on experience as much as Monty’s do. In a twist of irony, Pippy and I have never met IRL (at least I don’t remember if we have lol) and yet have managed to support each other through our respective business endeavours. I know for a fact that running her store must be more demanding than my own, and it’s only right that we had a chat.

M: What's your name, where are you from, and what do you do?

P: My name is Pippy, I was born in London and raised in Mahurangi. Currently, I run a shop called Monty’s that I conveniently cart around with me wherever I go.

M: What's your coffee order?

P: Usually, a boring old Americano but I branch out sometimes when I’m feeling frilly.

M: Ok sorry but has to be asked! Why the name Monty's?

P: I wish I had a cool story for this. It’s about time I made one up. My first car was called Monty. That’s not my interesting made-up story - I have a better imagination than that!

M: You've long been a champion of local creatives. What draws you to supporting small and local designers?

P: I think it was that old loop we are all too familiar with of needing the experience to get the job but needing the job to get the experience. I have always hoped to provide that stepping stone with Monty’s and facilitate local makers and suppliers bridging the awkward gap without needing to provide any prerequisite experience. Previously, I had been a facilitator at play_station and loved working with contemporary artists often in the establishing stage of their practice. Artist-run initiatives like play_station are amazing examples of spaces providing platforms for experimental art. So in some ways, the intent is the same but in a retail environment.

M: Wow, that’s noble of you I think the passion and the good intent behind the ongoing project is evident to customers and consumers. What in particular about Aotearoa's creative scene is exciting you currently?

P: I think after Covid lockdowns there was an apparent creative boom. Since then, it’s amazing to see so many Aotearoa labels continue to produce and supply even as we move into “post-pandemic life”. I think everyone can make beautiful things but I respect those who dedicate time to properly learning their craft. For a lot of people, they are working 9-5 jobs whilst also upholding their primary craft. Pair this with our new government’s lack of support for creative industries and we have ourselves some serious troopers!

M: Is nostalgia much of a draw for you when purchasing items, whether that be clothing, homewares, etc? I feel like there's something that could be said about the commodification of emotions and nostalgia and you may have a unique perspective on it given the narrative you push with your store.

P: Ooooh yes, nostalgia is a dear friend of mine. I mean, at the end of the day, it’s about consumerism but more importantly it’s about the importance we place on objects. The urge to collect, love and live through objects - it’s fickle. I think our reliance on items to preserve memories the brain can’t seem to fit. How a piece of nothing can become a family heirloom. It’s a confession to an obsession with stuff that has no importance beyond what we place on them.

But, it’s a human addiction that can be immensely joyful and defining. It’s harmless if we are aware of the negative impact of destructive consumerism. Not to preach to the choir but I hear shopping locally and sustainably is a good way to go…

An interesting spread at the aforementioned French markets.

M: Speaking of nostalgia - what's your favourite piece in your wardrobe at the moment and why?

P: I found this amazing necklace in a brocante in France during my last visit. Oh-la-la it is so beautiful! I’m not a necklace wearer usually but this piece feels right. I feel very lucky whenever I look at it.

M: What's next on the cards? I heard from a little birdie you may be coming back to Auckland…

P: Well, Monty’s was only ever supposed to be a temporary project and here I am, still dancing into its fourth year. It seems to have a life of its own so I am reluctant to say when it might end. And yes, I might have a physical presence in Auckland again (although temporarily) soon!

I will be joining the mass migration to London later this year but intend to keep Monty’s alive and well. However, although I love this shop, it does suck all my time and so I would like to find a better balance of being able to make my work again adjacently. We shall see.