This post is the first in the Talk Shop series, where we interview independent store owners from across the country, to get their inside take on their business, and the business of being in business. In a country where Starbucks and Target are overwhelmingly commonplace, Hello Craft has a love for folks taking the leap to be their own boss while supporting the indie arts and crafts community.

In this the premiere Talk Shop, Joshua Tiktin, artist, musician and co-owner (with his wife Luciana),
of Dekka in Washington, D.C., gives us the goods on his unique art co-op that has become a smash hit gallery and retail destination.

Dekka’s mission is to be a vehicle that designers, artists, and musicians can use in order to connect with their consumers; They provide opportunities such as donated space and time at entertainment events for individuals to showcase their talents and sell their products.  Dekka also provides their artists with donated space at the DEKKA Showroom — a co-op style space where members pay a rent to sell their merchandise.  And to top off this brilliant concept, Joshua is a super nice dude… which means a lot in the fast-paced business world of D.C.  Read on to find out more.

Tell us what Dekka is all about:
DEKKA is a showroom that features over 30 (mostly local) designers and artists. We work together as a team to promote our individual creative businesses.  At the same time, it is in our hearts to stir up positive movements in the cultural landscape in the DC area.

Do you have any sort of background in crafting or the arts?
Yes, a lot! I have written, produced, MC’d, and DJ’d Electronic and Hip Hop music since 89′.  I was also a self employed artist for several years in Miami, after graduating from University of Maryland with an Art degree.

How does your business support independent artists and crafters and/or the handmade community?
We give them the opportunity of having a store in the heart of a hopping shopping district (U Street!),
without the tremendous cost and risk of owning and operating their own store.

Being that DC is typically a conservative (fashion-wise) and expensive (for most of us) city, how have those factors played into your decision to open and run a business here?
We didn’t plan on doing this! We did have the idea in our minds while living in Miami and here, but it happened here because we met a lot of artists and designers who wanted to do it.  DC wanted this! It turns out that this is the best place to do this now.  Since the government is here, the economy is more stable in DC than in other cities.  People still have their jobs, they still have money, and they are still shopping!

How can local crafters get involved with Dekka?
They can send me an email with “DEKKA” in the subject line (please send links and/or pics, etc.).  From there we will go over their work and see if it fits in with what we are doing.  If it does, we will go over all the details and logistics.  After that, it is up to them if they are ready to join with us!

What are the most unusual items for sale in your shop?
With songs like “Evil Chicken” and “The Windshield Wiper Dance”, I would have to say my “JMC” CD’s are definitely out there.  Also, Jon Wye’s belt buckles (Belgian waffles, underwear, etc) are fresh.  The artwork of David Barr and Michelle Fatovic are also truly unique and inspiring.

Any exciting upcoming events or sales going on at Dekka?
Absolutely! Black Friday is going to be awesome (November 28).  We will be open from 9am-9pm, featuring lots of discounts, drinks, food, and music.  It’ll be a blast!  Also, the first Saturday of every month is our Art Open House, and the third Thursday of every month is our Trunk Show.  Keep a heads up for some monthly out of store events coming soon! Don’t forget to visit our website at www.dekkafam.com.

Dekka is located at 1338 U Street NW, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20009.
Check out their artists and latest happenings at dekkafam.com.

If you own a boutique, gallery or other place of business that supports the indie craft community, and want it featured in Talk Shop, email hellocraftinfo@gmail.com with Talk Shop in the subject line.