If I had to guess where most of us might be on Friday, Nov. 25, here’s where I’d begin:
One: With family in one of those freezing cold states east of California.
Two: Stuck at the airport.
Three: Lying on the sofa in a tryptophan stupor, or
Four: Beating other shoppers away with a stick at Macy’s or Best Buy.
Alternatively, you could avoid each of those horrifyingly familiar “Black Friday” pastimes and head over to University Heights to attend The Goods Show, a pretty ambitious arts market featuring over 30 local artists, designers and businesses selling an array of handmade, unique and affordable holiday gifts.
In and of itself The Goods Show sounds like a worthy idea not too far removed from the thread events that happen here and there once or twice a year, or the handmade craft shops that pop up in homes and other locations around town. A handmade anything in my opinion is more interesting than something off an assembly line (especially when it’s a gift). But beyond my personal shopping preference, supporting local artists and artisans is another way to boost the local economy, help arty people pay their bills, which in turn makes San Diego a more interesting place to live.
What has piqued my interest about The Goods Show more than their promised array of eclectic affordable handicrafts is where the event will take place. Anyone who has walked (or staggered) past 4610 Park Blvd. to (or from) Bourbon Street might have noticed the small windows of what was once an emporium of antique booths and consignment outlets. I went inside once or twice and learned that this large and awesome space used to be a factory and that theatrical costumes were still made in an office up in the rafters.
But that was a few years ago. The last time I looked, the small windows facing the sidewalk were devoid of bric-a-brac and the space was for rent.
Now 4610 Park Ave. is home to 3rdspace, a place for creative San Diegans to work side by side. 3rdspace is a member’s only club, but it is not about exclusivity, in fact quite the opposite is true. 3rdspace is more about creating an unorthodox work environment (no desks!) for artists, business startups and social entrepreneurs to gather and work, bounce ideas off each other and share in the planning of events, like The Goods Show. Who knew!
Check out their Web site at 3rdspace.co/thegoodsshow and head over for the shopping bargains (noon-8 p.m.) or the art reception (8-11 p.m.) and make your Black Friday a little bit brighter!
