While many of us were doom scrolling instagram in the early days of the pandemic, one instagram account with their posts of whimsical illustrations of local Brooklyn storefronts, stood out amongst the sea of bread loaves, sourdough starters, Peloton rides. Tangible New York created by designer Jessie Smith, specializes in "storefront illustrations are inspired by the small businesses that she loves to visit in her neighborhood. Her work aims to celebrate the special places that make New York feel like home."<br />
While many of us were doom scrolling instagram in the early days of the pandemic, one instagram account with their posts of whimsical illustrations of local Brooklyn storefronts, stood out amongst the sea of bread loaves, sourdough starters, Peloton rides. Tangible New York created by designer Jessie Smith, specializes in "storefront illustrations are inspired by the small businesses that she loves to visit in her neighborhood. Her work aims to celebrate the special places that make New York feel like home."
As a small business owner, I absolutely love the concept of focusing on local small businesses through her colorful illustrations, and artist Jessie Smith truly knows how to encapsulate neighborhood small business love and nostalgia through her graphics. The first post that I fell in love with was her vibrant print of the beloved, Brooklyn Farmacy Ice Cream Shop. In the time where many of our neighborhood's small businesses were forced to shut their doors, or makeshift an outdoor/ to-go situation, it made me realize how these institutions truly made our neighborhoods so magical. In their absence, a little bit of the Brooklyn joy was dimmed. And so, I truly coveted these sweet Tangible New York illustrations when I felt homesick for my own neighborhood. Some other favorites include: Poppys, Frankies 457, Court Street Grocers, Paisanos Butcher Shop, and of course, our sweet neighbors, Cafe Volkan.
When I first opened up Flea Brooklyn on Smith street, I knew I wanted to bring in local artists to showcase their works through pop ups. I immediately thought of Tangible New York and reached out to see if Jessi would come to Flea and showcase her work this past June. It was very moving to see how many other people also get excited about some of storefront gems and bring a piece of Brooklyn home with them. Of course, we couldn't host the talented artist without asking for our own storefront illustration of Flea... and when the graphic is finished, we will be sure to share it with all of you.
It's truly magical to be part of these neighborhood storefronts and be supported by our neighbors. Cheers to small businesses, Brooklyn Artists, and our Brooklyn neighborhoods!
