"Today, a public art project hopes to document all of the history and preserve the market’s style and spirit through tours, story circles and an impressive digital archive. At the head of the Our Market Project is artist Michelle Angela Ortiz, who grew up in the 9th street staple and witnessed a lot of change over the years.”

"The street is not just a tourist destination for a photo opportunity or a place to visit, but a living, breathing community that deserves respect. Visiting and learning about Ninth Street from Our Market tours, Ortiz noted, is a way to help give back and bolster the community."

"I want people to experience the market as a place that exemplifies Philadelphia history, immigrant history, and most importantly, American history, and that this is a cultural gem that we have that we need to continue to support, especially the people that make this place thrive."

"This current climate, despite the fear, intimidation and uncertainty, is a space where the community rises,” Ortiz says. “When communicating these issues, we need to balance what’s going on politically with how people are coming together and identifying their collective power."

"I am utilizing my skills as an artist, as a community arts educator, as a filmmaker, as somebody who uses the art as a way to promote positive social change, to invest back into my community," Ortiz said."

"My main goal," Michelle Angela Ortiz says, "is to show the value of what a space like this can reflect. In a hustling market, I want to open up communication to reflect how far we've come and really where we can go."

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“At times, the artworks present positive narratives to combat threats of displacement, gentrification, and erasure. The result is radical: a call to action for people to rethink who the Ninth Street Market belongs to and how public art can better serve underrepresented communities.”

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“The name “Our Market” shows a determination to proclaim that the market, officially known as the 9th Street Italian Market, belongs to everyone, and every one belongs there.”

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“Ortiz’s actions are about making space for everyone who makes the market possible — and the complicated, nuanced realities that exist within the community, especially as it changes.”

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“The works are reminiscent of church stained glass, combining beauty and spirtuality illuminated by light. Images and words are merged to create displays of work, honor, family, and love.”

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