Michelle Angela Ortiz is a Philadelphia-based artist, educator, and filmmaker whose work functions as a vehicle to represent people and communities whose histories are often lost or co-opted. Through community arts practices, painting, documentaries, and public art installations, Ortiz creates a safe space for dialogue around profound social and cultural issues and transforms spaces into a visual affirmation that reveals the strength and spirit of the community.

Our Market Project is rooted in the heart of Philadelphia’s 9th Street Market. Led by Michelle Angela Ortiz and Fiera Studios, it is a multi-layered, community-centered public art project that has been evolving since its inception in April 2019. Our Market focuses on celebrating and supporting the (im)migrant vendors, business owners, and neighbors who have made the area their home for generations. For her exhibition at Philadelphia International Airport, Ortiz presents an illuminated produce cart and lightbox diptychs that feature three different small businesses located in the market. Each diptych highlights stories from the business owners, centered not on labor, but on reflections of light and hope for themselves and our collective community.

Popularly known as the Italian Market or La Calle Nueve, the 9th Street Market was created over 100 years ago and was critical in paving the way for many families to build a better life. Prior to the arrival of Italian immigrants, there was already the presence of Jewish and Irish vendors, Lebanese families, and African American laborers in the Market. Over time, the community has expanded to include Mexican, Central American, and Southeast Asian people who continue to contribute to the livelihood and spirit of the Market and represent the layered stories that exemplify our American history.

Visit michelleangela.com
       ourmarketproject.com