“If you really want to occupy Wall Street,” suggests an image circulated on Facebook, “shop locally.” The current emphasis on conscientious consumption as a form of politics, disseminated widely now through the meme sparked by Occupy Wall Street, boils down to choosing local, sustainable practices, supporting small businesses and buying locally made goods. Indeed, the ripples caused by shopping locally can have global effects, from community building to supporting artists. Other reasons to buy locally made items include undermining corporate giants and rejecting outsourced mass production, often achieved under compromised working conditions. Beyond politics, of course, the gift-giver is perceived as cool and politically aware. It is a winning situation all around — and it’s fun!
So, as we look for new ways to perpetuate the protests ignited by Occupy Wall Street, might I suggest some of these Bay Area resources for artist-created wares? It is possible to participate in the movement without pitching a tent in front of city hall. In fact, real economic change will require subtle, wide-reaching gestures beyond symbolic protest, and this largely boils down to how your money circulates in the economy. Frustrated by cheap mass-produced goods and the absence of American production? Hit up a local craft fair or local arts organization. One of the best ways to occupy your time and money this holiday season is to shop locally, and support artists and small businesses in the process.

Name in Lights, Tony May; courtesy SJICA.
Many nonprofit arts organizations feature storefronts that generate organizational support while also supporting local artists. Kala Art Institute (1060 Heinz Ave., Berkeley; Tuesday through Saturday, 11am-5pm) and the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art Print Center (60 South First Street, San Jose; Tuesday through Friday, 10am-5pm) both offer original prints created by former artists-in-residence. At the SJICA Print Center, discover Tony May’s Name in Lights (2011), a sculptural “print” lit from within, or a series of quietly beautiful prints by former SECA awardee Rosana Castrillo Diaz.
Rock Paper Scissors Collective (2278 Telegraph Ave., Oakland; Wednesday through Sunday, 12-7pm) is a volunteer-run nonprofit that promotes skill sharing — here you might learn how to build your own bike or buy handmade jeans. Its retail space features funky silk-screened clothes and local music, among other items.