Here’s a great example of community activism both in function and aesthetic. The Eclectic Monkey Emporium, recently named Best Thrift Store in 2011 by Phoenix New Times, is located in the heart of downtown Mesa.
The store was originally built with a community oriented purpose, a place where victims of domestic violence and sexual assault could shop free of charge. However, they ended up having so many donations, traffic, and a buzz that they opened up the shop for the general public to enjoy.
The owner is also in the process transforming a dull facade into a creative expression with an edge to edge mural….making it look the facade is melting in the hot Arizona sun. It’s still in the process of being completed, can’t wait to see it when it’s finished!
