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Community Corner

Fashion, Art and Film at a Thrift Store in Bed-Stuy

The Meat Market is back with vintage clothing, film screenings and art shows, among other things

A new vintage and thrift store has reopened its doors to the public, sporting a new look and a long list of plans for the summer.

The Meat Market Vintage and Thrift opened for a brief stint last October, only to close a month later when the heater broke. Owner Kemba Bloodworth took her time in reopening the store, collecting more clothing and accessories, renovating the space and planning for the summer months.

As of May 21, The Meat Market is back, and looking better than ever.

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“Now, it’s a different energy,” said Kemba.

Kemba’s main goal with The Meat Market is to create a space for art, film and fashion. The clothing sales fund several other projects she is taking on, such as teaching classes, selling local art and hosting events at the store such as film screenings and live music

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“I want ideas to be floating around and people to start communicating,” said Kemba. “I want art to do that. I want clothes to do that.”

The clothes here make a distinct statement. Manequins are donned with hot pink wigs, stylish caps and gigantic sunglasses. There are studded belts, sequined heels and lacey gowns, among other items.

While the clothes here fit all types of styles and moods, each individual item says something on its own.

“If you’re rocking a belt that’s made of trash, it changes your relationship with trash,” said Kemba. In fact, one of the upcoming classes is going to be about making accessories out of garbage.

The whole store offers a free spirited, laid back atmosphere, perfect for shopping for that funky, alternative item for your wardrobe.

Kemba said she is in the process of renovating the back yard, where she hopes to use as a space for local vendors to sell their products during the day. In addition, she plans to utilize the back room as an alternative gallery space for local artists. 

“I want something that hits all your senses,” said Kemba.

A Bed-Stuy resident herself, Kemba said she is in love with the neighborhood and well connected with artists in the Bed-Stuy community. 

“Bed-Stuy is vibrant, energetic and uplifting to my spirit," said Kemba. "There are so many genius people here that do a lot with so little. Bed-Stuy deserves something like this."

With community spaces such as Bread Stuy closing, perhaps this can be the next neighborhood hot spot. 

More information on upcomiong events can be found at The Meat Market's website, ilovemeatmarket.com, due to go live in a few weeks. Until then, visit their facebook page.

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