Arkansas Makers Market Comes to SoMa

Shop one-of-a-kind goods from local artisans at Arkansas Makers Market during Oct. 4-6. Held at Esse Purse Museum, the weekend will kick off with a reception event that coincides with the South Main neighborhood’s monthly SoMa After Dark event on Friday, Oct. 4. 

During the reception, the artists will have their work on display and will be able to answer questions about their pieces and their processes. Folks can shop their work at Esse through Oct. 6.

Here are the local artists that will be included in the Makers Market:

  • Bryant Phelan — The Arkansas native handbag designer handcrafts each of his pieces using fine hides and traditional leather working techniques. Phelan’s work has been seen in several fashion shows and magazines, including New York Fashion Week and ELLE.
  • Ben Dory — Dory is the jewelry and metals artist in residence at UA Little Rock. His work can be seen in multiple galleries across the country. He will be represented in New York Jewelry Week by Gallery 2052 from Chicago.
  • CC Mercer — Mercer combines her love for arts and activism by using theater and textiles to tell social justice narratives with an emphasis on uplifting voices of color.

For more about Mercer, read our story about her myriad of talents published in our April issue.

  • Markia Herron — Local hatmaker Markia Herron will have her one-of-a-kind pieces on display.

For more info on the exhibit, head to Esse’s website.

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ARKANSAS MARKERS MARKET 🧵 @mercer_textile is a featured marker! Check out my new hand-stitched leather clutch, one of the items that will be available at the market (HOLD ON $200.00). See event details below… ESSE Museum & Store is hosting an Arkansas Makers Market from October 4th – 6th, including a reception during SoMa After Dark on October 4th. As a supporter of handmade objects and the artists who make them, ESSE is excited to give a platform for these local makers to showcase their talents. Please join us for refreshments on October 4th from 4pm – 8pm. The artists will have their wares on display and most will be present to answer questions about their work and processes. Their work will be available at ESSE through October 6th. Follow the event link to RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/2365787153750798/?ti=icl #Makers #Artists #Creatives #MercerTM #Culture #Custom #Magic #Textiles

A post shared by Mercer Textile Mercantile (@mercer_textile) on

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