The basic concept of the store is that it sells black and predominately-black colored items made by members of the African diaspora. More than that, the project's about using the boutique format to highlight blackness in a space where boutiques are potent symbols of the displacement of long-standing black communities. It's also about drawing attention to the ways in which blackness is (under)valued in our society by creating a space where blackness is hypervalued.
 
nègre’s highly curated selection, which focuses on products made by Bay Area  artisans, works within Bailey’s conceptually precise framework in a space that engages both gallery visitors and casual shoppers. Bailey’s role within nègre is that of a shopkeeper and she will be at nègre during all open hours to engage with customers. Her mantra of “Welcome to nègre! We sell beautiful black things!” draws attention to the rarity of spaces in which blackness is valued and promoted. Her performative role also encourages visitors to engage with the artist and the objects in the store.
 
nègre will close on December 28th with a day-long celebration called The Blackest Friday. The details for The Blackest Friday, as well as other events that will take place within nègre, will be posted to Dream Farm Commons’ website and also on negreboutique.com.  
 
STORE HOURS: 
Wednesdays through Fridays 12-7 PM
Saturdays and Sundays 12-6 PM
 

LOCATION: Dream Farm Commons, 349 15th St, Oakland, CA 94612info@dreamfarmcommons.com

 
nègre will open to the public with special preview hours from noon to 7pm on Tuesday, December 4th.
 

Sign up for nègre's specific mailing list at negreboutique.com or check in on the website regularly for updates on in-store events