Ronen Glimer ’96

For many artists and collectors, finding community — whether it’s buyers or fellow creatives — can be a challenge. In 2003, Ronen Glimer ’96 and his partner, Amy Abrams, envisioned a solution: a central space where artisans could come together en masse, attracting larger crowds and more eyes on their goods. Thus, Artists & Fleas was born in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Locally made goods, handcrafted jewelry, vintage records and dozens of other crafts can all be found in one place, with makers showcasing their wares in pop-up stalls each weekend.

Twenty years later, the concept is thriving, with additional locations in Manhattan’s Chelsea Market and in Venice, Calif., providing a home for more than 200 independent makers, creators and collectors. “We’ve created a venue, a platform and an opportunity for people to not only be in business for themselves, but also to connect with other individuals who share their beliefs, or who support them — and do so in person,” Glimer says. “That’s pretty cool!”

Glimer is the chief operations officer of Artists & Fleas (Abrams is CEO); a big part of his work is building “catalysts for creativity and commerce” in each location, so that creative individuals can be in business for themselves. In an age where cheap, anonymous, mass-produced items can be bought online, he wants to ensure there are in-person spaces available where artists can showcase their unique crafts and goods, and where local buyers can find handmade works that speak to them.

Says Glimer, “I think a big part of what fuels this business — and fuels my day-to-day — is keeping cities interesting, keeping them thriving, and to be a place of community and opportunity for creative individuals.”

— Anne-Ryan Sirju JRN’09