The brand new Aviva Studios is to be transformed into a bustling market of black owned businesses from Manchester. 65 businesses will be showcased at this year’s Melanin Markets at the venue on Sunday (December 3).
In partnerships with Factory international, all spaces of the studio will be filled with food, clothing, skin and haircare stalls from a collection of black business owners in the city. The event will also have interactive painting sessions, DJing, workshops, and steel pan music.
Punters can expect to find the the likes of Caribbean and African vegan eateries ARMR and GwafuVegan, authentic African restaurant RJ’s Cuisine, as well as traditional Caribbean heritage drinks from Manchester’s Root2Ginger, Miss Jackson’s Drinks, and Opm Mcr.
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Co-Founder and director of Melanin Markets, Bianca Danielle, said: “Most people don’t know, but every venue I choose to hold a Melanin Markets event at is purposeful and an act of rebellion. It has to be a safe space, the organisation has to deeply understand the cause and in turn we refuse to be pushed into the corner, we’ll be playing the tunes, showcasing our passions and talking the ting from the very front door.
“It’s a day for us to shake up the space we take over. We come together as one people, a village, unapologetically celebrating our passion, spirit and culture, pulling in everyone from all walks of life to partake in the uprising and sharing of love, light and heritage.
“This partnership with Factory international is a powerful one. Coming in to transform their new home Aviva Studios, for our annual festive event is a coming together of great minds.
“Factory International shares our vision for innovation, collaboration and creating unforgettable art experiences. Factory International, a hub for world-renowned and local talents, aligns perfectly with our mission to celebrate and promote Black-owned businesses in Manchester.
“It’s a major move. Aviva Studios, the new home of Factory International, is a landmark space designed for flexibility and creativity, offering a canvas for bold new work. Together, we’re shaping the future of art and business, breaking barriers and embracing the vibrant diversity of Manchester.”
Aviva Studios is a major new arts and performance space built on the former Granada Studios site on Water Street in Manchester. The Melanin Markets will run from 12pm to 5pm with free entry.
More information can be found here.
