Pittsburgh has more than its share of holiday markets for shoppers to find handmade gifts while also supporting small businesses in the community. Adding to the list is the first-ever Black Friday Artist Mixer, a place for local Black artists and Black-owned businesses to sell this season.
Curated by Diiviine Time Productions, a Pittsburgh arts and events venture run by Nami Bey, the Black Friday Artist Mixer will take place on Fri., Nov. 29 at Level Up Studios. Sponsored by the Dreamz of Music Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports disabled musicians, the event will also feature live performances by several area musical acts and dance crews.
“It’s gonna be a good time,” says Bey, a young arts entrepreneur who also organizes creatively themed dance parties at a Vinceton Street location in the North Side.
The featured vendors represent a wide variety of goods, including Bey’s own brand, Diiviine Acensiion; art from The Halfway Handsome Brand by Jordan Collington; all-natural hair and body products by MoonLit Glo; and items from Hi Top thrift store. Bey also lists Solly Monster, Afro Queen: Deja King, Miguel Moon, Toki’s Treats, and High Talent Studios: Latika Swell.
Unlike other markets that take place primarily during the day, this one opts for late night by staying open until midnight.
If successful, Bey hopes to keep creating opportunities for local Black artists, makers, and small businesses.
“[Black Friday Artist Mixer] is the first of its kind,” she says. “I hope to have more every year.”
Black Friday Artist Mixer at Level Up Studios. 7 p.m.- 12 a.m. 4836 Penn Ave., Garfield. Free. leveluppgh.com
Diiviine Time Productions presents first Black Friday Artist Mixer
