SEATTLE — Black Arts Love is a gallery and marketplace in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood. Inside you'll find products from 30 Black artists and creators. Each one is curated by founder and CEO Malika Bennett.
"We have so many talents in our community that don't often get the platform to be seen and heard," said Bennett. "By supporting Black artists, you're supporting our culture, our voice, our expression and you're helping build economy in our community."
There's clothing from veteran-owned Altruistic as well as coffee and mugs from Seed to Bean. They also sell jewelry, candles, books, art and more. The gallery also hosts events like paint and sip nights.
"We want people to come in our gallery and feel welcomed and loved," said Bennett. "We want you to try the products, to interact with the art, to be uplifted and have a good time."
Bennett started Black Arts Love in 2016. She was looking to make a positive impact during a turbulent time.
"It was a lot going on in that time period with police shootings and different violence and things happening in our community," said Bennett. "I was just very unsettled by what was happening."
Fueled by her love of art, she put her corporate marketing skills to work with pop-ups across the city. That success gave her the confidence to open a permanent location.
"I have extreme gratitude for being given the opportunity to bring this platform to our community and for our artists," said Bennett. "And now really it's up to us collectively to keep it going. It is so important that we just continue to show love and support those that are that are putting themselves out there to be seen and heard. To be a change agent and providing opportunities for black people, black artists, and just enriching our entire community by doing that."
You can help support those artists and the community by taking part in Black Black Friday. It's an initiative encouraging people to do their holiday shopping at Black-owned businesses. Black Black Friday involves nearly 100 businesses including Black Arts Love. You can purchase a prepaid card on their website at a 20% discount.
Black Arts Love is located at 417 E. Pike Street in Seattle. It's open Wednesday through Sunday.
Sponsored by BECU.
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