It began when MASSART students started vending their projects on Evans Way park—but last Saturday, the first Carcass of the semester, a local DIY open-air art exchange by students for students, kicked off. Young artists got the chance to showcase their talent and entrepreneurial spirit. There were a variety of goods, from handmade collections to second-hand items.
Visual artist Moscow Yamamoto offered $5 on-demand sketch portraits among a host of portraiture and figure art.
When talking about their goals as an artist, Yamamoto expressed a desire to use their voice as an artist while also seeking opportunities that can provide financial stability.
Julie Nguyen, a senior film student selling ceramics said she “fell in love with it” after taking a class. Her booth featured a delightful spread, with prices ranging from $15 to $50 for small bowls, larger plates, and vases adorned with food-themed designs, like a pancake plate and a pasta box vase.
Though this was the first Carcass of the semester, it wasn’t her first time participating. She shared that setting up her table and starting to sell is usually quite straightforward—no license required. It also offers a valuable opportunity to “talk to students, get a read on what people like to buy and see, and gain some great business experience,” as Nguyen put it.
Nguyen said the market was generally positive but slightly overwhelming.
“The first Carcass of the semester is always the best,” said Nguyen, noting that she had already made 10 sales by that point.
Sophomore duo Aaron and Bridger, who collaborate on screen printing from their dorm room, drew inspiration from old magazines of the ‘80s and ‘90s, “Rolling Stone” especially, noting the distinctive halftone printing techniques that were popular then. The pieces sold were thought up over the summer by Aaron, who then created the artwork once back on campus in the fall and printed them on blanks.
Aaron aims to either become a graphic design professor or work in sports media, focusing on poster and ad design. Bridger, on the other hand, hopes to work as a drafter for a design firm. They complement each other well in their collaboration, with Bridger generating many of the ideas, while Aaron handles the actual printing.
The Carcass Flea Market serves as a platform for both consumers and vendors alike. For shoppers, it’s an exciting opportunity to discover unique, handmade items while connecting with the community of artists at MASSART and beyond. For sellers, it’s a valuable way to put themselves out there, gain insight into market demand, and meet with audiences face to face.
