The Vanier Hub was bustling with vendors as well as art and music lovers
Nosy Mag and First Crush accomplished their goal of creating an inviting space for artists to sell and display their work. On Oct. 1, the Vanier Hub was bustling with vendors as well as art and music lovers.
The event hosted a variety of vendors. In such a small space, it didn’t take long to check out every booth. The joy really came from chatting with the vendors about their art. Each vendor had a story and a foundation that built their brand. Getting to know the artists behind the art was inspiring and created a positive environment.
Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter, the founder of First Crush, was the DJ for the first portion of the event, and she hovered over the music and bounced along to the beat. Some sat to enjoy the music, while others checked out the vendor tables and bake sale for things to buy.
Loosey Lou also made an appearance. Her DJ set mixed Arab jams with contemporary pop, creating a nostalgic and exciting performance.
Mukazi, an Ottawa-based musician, performed some soulful and heartfelt songs that prompted the market-goers to flock to the stage.
The Fulcrum spoke with Mariam from Ravi Gallery. Ravi Gallery is a business run by two cousins, Mariam and Pari, who sell art that is created in collaboration with women in Iran, their home.
In doing so, they support women in Iran facing economic and social barriers. Ravi Gallery sheds light on the resilience of Iranians and portrays the country’s rich history, variety, and craftsmanship.
Kayla Eli, one of the vendors The Fulcrum spoke to before the market, was also in attendance. She showcased her Bird Lips Zine, which comes in an array of colours. The content of the zine was heartwarming, funny, and poignant.
The No Way tattoo collective based on Bank St. also attended the event and they presented an assortment of products. They sold pins, clothing, tote bags, decorations, and drawings.
The focus on building community was evident at the Homecoming event. Sarah Jasmine Hodgson, the Nosy Mag Project Director, spent time making sure everyone who came by felt welcome.
However, some barriers existed for students wanting to participate in the festivities.
Here are some tips on how to attend an art market if you are trying to stick to a budget.
Plan your transportation
A location accessible by public transit is ideal to accommodate students and people on a budget. In Ottawa, a location accessible by one bus is ideal to avoid the drama of a bus transfer.
Look for ‘pay what you can’ events
The Homecoming event presented an excellent idea with a pay-what-you-can bake sale as well as free tea. The proceeds of the bake sale were donated to Minwaashin Lodge, an Indigenous women’s support center.
Another option would be to have a small table with various products and extend this payment style to the vendor table.
By incorporating these tips, more students will be able to join the crowds at art markets, and this will ultimately amplify the mission of focusing on community and local artists.
