Hand Crafted Success: For All Handkind Expands Again

July 06, 2021

Art and Community. 

That is what For All Handkind, also commonly known in short as FAHK, is all about. 

FAHK is a space where artists both local and beyond can showcase and sell their unique handcrafted creations. 5% of all sales go to charity, making a long list of organizations that have benefited from them. 

FAHK also hosts a variety of workshops, both pre-scheduled and ones with walk-in availability. They truly focus on bringing art to the community in all that they do. And trust us, they do a lot and are about to celebrate a significant milestone! 

But First, the Beginning 

The idea was dreamed up and brought to fruition by Gayle Forman, Kimberly McKinnis, and Kelsie McNair. These artists wanted to support their fellow makers by designing a space for them to create and sell. FAHK isn’t exclusive to just local artists; they work and partner with artists across the country as well. To date, they have showcased and furthered the dreams of over 70 artists in just a few quick years.

Artists also have the opportunity to volunteer in the shop for added commission-based benefits. Many take advantage of this to create and sell their work during daytime shop hours. 

Initially founded in 2016, FAHK has grown from its humble 900 square foot spot in the Selden Market to a new 3,000-square foot storefront in the heart of MacArthur Center. Grand opening plans are in the works for later this week. 

Not only are they growing in space, but they continue to grow here in the 757 community, making quite a positive name for themselves. From showcasing 70+ artists in their showroom store to hosting exhibitions, they’re making their mark here in Hampton Roads. 

Grand Opening 

Speaking of the Grand Opening, July 9 is the big day. They have been hard at work planning this celebration and have a lot in store for guests to enjoy. 

One major highlight of the Grand Opening is that it will feature one of their five resident artists, Poetry Jackson. Jackson is self-taught and specializes in visual arts and paintings. Additionally, she’s a poet and a performer and the founder of Artkive Mural Group. Per her bio, she states her goal is to “create work that stimulates dialogue about critical issues and builds bridges of connection and understanding.”

Poetry’s art will be the main exhibit on display in FAHK’s 400+ foot gallery space during the Grand Opening celebration. Guests will have the opportunity to view her artwork and meet her in person. The other four resident artists will create and host an exhibition in the gallery over the next year. 

Also, at the Grand Opening will be several pop-up businesses with a strong emphasis on artists from the BIPOC community, welcoming guests and introducing them to their wares. Guests will be able to mix and mingle with business owners and artists alike, all of whom share common ground–a focus on building community. 

The New Space 

Once you step foot inside, there is much more to the area that will catch your eye. This unique space includes five suite-style nooks for artists to extrapolate on their latest endeavors. These five nooks are currently rented out, with each tenant utilizing theirs as they choose. 

The increased square footage allows FAHK to have a gallery where their work is on rotation. The gallery is full of bright lighting and presents an opportunity to view the art up close with ample ability to move around and enjoy each display. It’s sure to be a significant highlight on show during the Grand Opening and is one that art lovers and creators alike will immensely enjoy. 

You Are Invited! 

The Grand Opening is open to the public on July 9 from 4-7 pm at MacArthur Center Site 261, located on level 2 near Dillard’s. 

The day’s event will feature an official ribbon cutting followed by tons of art and local businesses to explore. You can check out and RSVP to the official Facebook event page here. 

We are excited to see the art community come out to support FAHK’s major expansion and re-opening ceremony. It will be an evening of great art, conversation, and community. 

Be sure to browse FAHK’s online collections available for purchase and follow them on social media to show your support. 

Lauren Roberts

Ghent, NFK

Lauren is originally from Pittsburgh but has called the 757 home for the past 10+ years. She is a content creator and has a strong love for social media. You can find her sipping coffee at the local shops, enjoying a bite at one of her favorite restaurants or taking in the latest social scenes.

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