Windsor's Urban Art Market Celebrates a Decade of Supporting Local Artisans
Bright prints, handmade jewellery, and felted goods filled the Urban Art Market in Windsor's Walkerville neighbourhood on Saturday as shoppers and local makers gathered to celebrate the shop's 10th anniversary. The vibrant event highlighted a decade of community support and artistic collaboration in the heart of Windsor-Essex.
A Community Hub for Local Creativity
"We wanted to thank the community for supporting us through a lot of really challenging times," said owner Anissa Noakes. "Especially in the past couple of years." The gift shop, located at 548 Chilver Road, first opened its doors in 2016 and has since become a vital retail space for local makers to sell their handmade goods under one roof.
Noakes, who is also a knitter and crocheter under the brand Stray Sheep Co., began her journey by selling products at craft shows across Windsor-Essex. She expressed a desire for a permanent space that she could manage herself while sharing it with other local artists. "I wanted to create a space where artists could sell their work and meet their customers directly," Noakes told the Windsor Star. "We all work together to promote, sell, and grow."
Showcasing Diverse Artisanal Talent
The Urban Art Market currently features products from 45 makers across the Windsor-Essex region. The shop offers a wide array of items, including:
- Original artwork and colourful prints
- Handcrafted greeting cards and stickers
- Unique jewellery pieces
- Textiles and felted goods
- Home decor and decorative items
Saturday's anniversary celebration included pop-up vendors, prize draws, and in-store giveaways, providing shoppers with the opportunity to celebrate a decade of local creativity and meet the talented individuals behind the handmade goods.
Artist Perspectives on Community Impact
Local muralist and illustrator Sarah Robbins was among the vendors participating in the anniversary event. Robbins has painted more than 30 murals across Windsor-Essex, including in Walkerville, Ford City, and Kingsville. She sells colourful prints and stickers based on her public art and illustrations at the market.
"As artists, we need places like this," Robbins emphasized. "They bring people in and show how much talent there is in our community." Her presence at the celebration underscored the market's role in fostering artistic expression and community engagement.
The Urban Art Market's 10-year milestone not only marks a decade of business success but also highlights the enduring importance of supporting local artisans and preserving creative spaces within urban communities. As Windsor continues to evolve, establishments like the Urban Art Market serve as essential pillars for cultural enrichment and economic vitality.
