Weaving Community One Artist at a Time | Lawrence News

Monique Mercurio has launched The Peoples Market, a vibrant new community hub at 846 Illinois Street, blending art, commerce, and connection. Opened July 1st, this brick-and-mortar space already hosts a dozen artists selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and more, while weekend mornings feature coffee and pastries to fuel creativity and conversation. Rooted in Mercurio’s Ohlone Costanon Esselen Nation heritage and inspired by tribal weaving traditions, the market is a grassroots dream born from personal experience—offering artists without traditional access a platform to thrive. Building on past events like the Inclusive Winter Market and Black and Brown Market, Mercurio plans workshops, “paint and sip” nights, and collaborations with Haskell Indian Nations University to deepen community ties. More than just a shop, The People’s Market is weaving together a new kind of local heart—one where art, culture, and connection flourish side by side. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/180ec858574f36f9