The Art of Survival: Can the Community Help Art and Soul Café Thrive in Pittsburgh?
A battle cry was heard, and the community responded!! A Black-owned business, operating in downtown Pittsburgh, PA, recently announced on social media that he was in danger of losing his business. He expressed how hard that was to do. This is always disheartening to hear; the good news is that the community rallied around this black business owner, Marlon Gist with encouraging words and surmountable support!
Running a small business is no easy feat, and Marlon Gist, owner of Art & Soul Cafe in downtown Pittsburgh, knows this all too well. “Small businesses take a lot of hands-on work! The to-do list for a small entrepreneurial business is mind-boggling!” Gist says. For the past two years, Art & Soul Cafe has been a hub for art, music, food, and events, but the journey hasn’t been without challenges.
Black-Owned Café Faces Financial Struggles Amid Creative Vibrancy
The cafe, a Black-owned business in a city where such establishments are rare, offers more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a gallery and event space capable of hosting up to 125 people, providing a unique cultural experience for locals and visitors alike. “We’ve had some great events! It’s a really fun place to be, and I want to share that with people,” Gist says. Despite the creative energy that flows through the space, the financial strain of keeping the business afloat has been tough.
“I mentioned that we might close, which was very hard to expose on social media,” Gist admits. The post struck a chord with many. “The responses were overwhelming! A lot of people reached out with ideas and concerns! I’m still trying to get back to the comments!”
Art & Soul Café Owner Seeks Support to Keep Community Space Thriving
Gist is grateful for the support but also emphasizes the challenges small businesses face, especially in marketing and advertising. “I do so much art that I need someone to help me with marketing,” he shares. He recognizes the importance of spreading the word and drawing more attention to the cafe. “We all need help in some way, whether it’s marketing, finances, advertising, or just an encouraging word!”
As he gears up for their upcoming events, which you can see on their website www.gistcateringartandsoulcafe.com, Gist is more determined than ever to keep the doors of Art & Soul Cafe open, not just for himself but for the community. “I’m just trying to provide a space and opportunity that I never had! I don’t want anyone to go through my struggles. I’m open to any ideas to expose artists, feature artists, or just get together for a larger plan! We work better when we work together.”
Art & Soul Cafe has become a beloved part of Pittsburgh’s cultural landscape, and Gist is hopeful that with continued support, it will remain a space for creativity, connection, and collaboration for years to come.
What we’re not going to do is allow another Black-owned business to be forced to close due to rising rent costs and minimal support. I believe us as a community, and improved marketing strategies, will have this business right where it needs to be to thrive. In the social media comments, there were many mentions of the food being delicious and affordable! You know we love a good bite to eat while enjoying an evening out at a nice event in a welcoming atmosphere! There are some great events coming up at Art & Soul Cafe’ that you can see here: https://gistcateringartandsoulcafe.com/events or follow their Facebook page: “Art & Soul Cafe by Gist Catering” and Let’s pull up!
If you want to support this wonderful community space and help save the gallery, here are the ways:
A GoFundMe has been set up, here is the link: https://gofund.me/2f57e823
Cash App: $GistGallery
Venmo: 412-610-4228 (Marlon Gist)
Zelle: 412-610-4228 (Marlon Gist)
Email: Gistgallery@gmail.com
Phone: 412-224-2552
Location: Art & Soul Café 1125 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Website: https://gistcateringartandsoulcafe.com/
Facebook page: “Art & Soul Cafe by Gist Catering”
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This article first appeared in Soul Pitt Quarterly Online. © 2024 Soul Pitt Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
