In just more than a year, MADE in Long Beach has become a haven for the city’s independent artisan community. The expansive storefront on Pine Avenue promotes the local economy and inspires good ol’ LBC pride with its eclectic array of sellers and brands that produce everything from avocado oil to greeting cards to pet accessories.
There’s the de facto set of booster goods including shirts, beanies and hats repping the city by Port of Long Beach and Stay Anchored Long Beach; handcrafted jewelry by Common Creative, Ninotchka Goods, Dancing Beads and Adriane Errera; and ceramics by Anna Shoendorfer and Karen Punches. Plus, there are quick shoutouts to organic, fair-trade teas by Wide Eyes Open Palms; coffee roasters Good Hood and Black Ring Coffee; and books by Long Beach authors Philip C. Barragan II, Olga Toprover and Jennifer Jordan. Don’t forget the soaps!
You’ll also find more inventive items such as Reclamation Department’s knapsacks made from repurposed military bags that you can sport on your shoulder, hip or bicycle; mustache wax (seriously!) and shave and beard oil from Davy Jones; as well as beautiful reclaimed-wood oil lamps by John Majkut. For the audiophiles, Porch Party Records has its own section of vinyl albums. There are even comics such as Steve MacIsaac’s renowned Shirtlifter, which explores gay culture, sexuality and identity within its panels.
As if MADE couldn’t get any cooler, it celebrates Long Beach-based artists by showcasing photography and paintings of the city all over its walls; if you wander to the very back, you’ll find art from its latest exhibition. MADE also holds studio space for artists to produce their work. Check the website for special events, including craft fairs, poetry readings and art showings. Can’t OC just annex Long Beach from LA already?
MADE in Long Beach, 240 Pine Ave., Long Beach, (877) 752-1550; www.madelb.com.
One Reply to “MADE in Long Beach Celebrates the Crafty Side of the LBC”