THEMATA was created by entrepreneur, industrial designer and former RIT ID grad Tanvi Asher. Hailed one of the leading forces behind the ‘shop small’ and reshaping Rochester movement, Tanvi was awarded the 2020 ATHENA young professional award. “I want to bring modern, independent design to the masses. My goals are to help designers and small businesses grow, to inject money into the local economy, and to teach shoppers the value of conscious consumerism." 

Because shopping small and buying local doesn’t just feel great, it does a lot of good! We believe in the power of people - both the amazing small business owners that enrich our lives with their goods and employ people all over, and our community of supporters who grow the US economy when they choose to shop local at our markets. Our markets help build community, help to inspire all generations to follow their creative dreams, allow us to interact and connect in real-life, and so much more!