Alumna starts pop-up market for artists

The Field of Artisans is a pop-up market for all types of creativity to provide artists with the opportunity to sell their work, gain exposure and network on a consistent basis.

Katrina Meehan, the founder of the market, returned to Rhode Island after living in New York City for five years. Meehan, a native of South Kingstown, saw a need for an art-focused market that welcomes artists to sell their work weekly. Meehan is a jewelry designer and wanted to create a platform for artists to meet and collaborate.

“We have an extremely wide variety of creativity involved,” Meehan said. “The interest from shoppers and artists continues to grow.”

The Field of Artisans, which will continue through the end of December, includes artists, photographers, designers, builders, yogis and musicians. They come together and establish a market where creativities can sell unique, handmade piece to visitors and locals alike. As the seasons change, so do the artists that attend the markets.

The first Field of Artisans first market was held on June 13. All of the summer and fall sessions were held outside. They have their holiday pop-up coming up in November through December this year, located in downtown Wakefield.

130 artists have been involved in the Field of Artisans. On average, about 15 artists present at each market event.

“Having so many different artists involved ensures that each market will be different,” Meehan said. “Shoppers can come every weekend and find or meet someone new.”

A lot of University of Rhode Island alumni are involved as artist vendors. These artists include Jess Cabral, Emmah Mitrano, Leander Jaques and Rachel Lessne. Each alum has an Instagram account that showcase their work that is sold at the market.

Meehan is in charge of everything from organizing vendors, finding and securing venues to public relations and more. She earned her bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising with a minor in art at URI, and is now focusing on The Field of Artisans’ current fall session and upcoming holiday pop-up. The Field of Artisans recently held a market at the University of Rhode Island on Thursday, Sept. 24, outside of the Memorial Union.

“We strive to be different every market,” Meehan said. “We welcome all types of creativity and focus on being a collaborative.  New ideas are always welcome for yoga classes, music performances, and more. You’ll enjoy hanging out in The Field with everyone who is involved.”

Meehan encourages URI students to check the artists out. If interested in learning more about The Field of Artisans, check out their website at http://www.fieldofartisans.com/.