If you are a craftsperson or artisan living in Cook County and would like an outlet to sell your wares, a new group might have an answer for you.
Cook County Makers Cooperative opened for business on Memorial Day.
Mike Smieja, who serves on the board of directors, said the group was organized in support of makers, craftspeople, and artists, and will operate a makers market on the vacant lot located between the Beaver House and 8 Broadway Art Gallery for the summer season through MEA weekend.
Who can take part in the market?
Membership is limited to individuals 18 years of age or older who reside on property full-time or seasonally in the county, said Smieja. Only persons accepted for membership and their minor dependents may conduct business on property owned, leased or operated by Cook County Makers Cooperative. All products sold must be made, produced or designed by the member.
Membership, Smieja said, is contingent on payment of a member share to Cook County Makers Cooperative. The member share is $50 and is refundable once a person leaves membership at the discretion of the board of directors.
Members will pay an annual fee of $30 to remain an active member of the Cook County Makers Cooperative. Cooperative membership does not include membership in the Makers Market Lot; this is a separate membership, added Smieja.
Once you are a member you are entitled to equal participation in the democratic processes of the cooperative, as defined in the bylaws and the policies of the cooperative. Each member may cast one vote in decisions of the membership and at general membership meetings.
If you would like to learn more about the Cook County Makers Cooperative, check out their Facebook page.
Leave a Reply