Shop Small Shop Troy Series: Context Collective

95 4th St

Owner: Mariah Kitner

How long have you been in business in Troy?

Context Collective first opened their doors to Downtown Troy over a year ago, but Mariah has been operating her studio Context Clay for a total of five years!

What do you sell?

Context Collective is a gallery that hosts rotating exhibits with one-of-a-kind art pieces available for purchase. The gallery also has a ceramic showroom home to Mariah & Co-founder Ash King's personal ceramic works available for purchase. Workshops are hosted at Context Collective as well!

What item are you excited to highlight this holiday season?

Context Collective is opening their 2025 Callback Market, where they invited 13 of their 2025 artists back for a special holiday shop small market. It’s all fine art and grab-and-go pieces. They have prints, scrunchies, pottery, planters, ashtrays, jewelry, just a whole mix of work from these talented local artists.

What makes Troy special to you?

"The community. In just one year of being open, we’ve been welcomed with so many friendly faces. I love seeing people walk into our space, take a breath of fresh air, and feel at home. It’s truly the people who make Troy so special."

Why shop small this holiday season?

"Shopping small directly supports the local economy. It literally puts food on the table for hardworking, talented artists in your community. Every purchase has a meaningful impact."

Anything else you'd like to share?

"I also have Troy Victorian New York ornaments available, pieces I created during my residency at the Tech Valley COG, inspired by Victorian Troy and the idea of “Made in Troy, New York.”

"So pick up an ornament and visit us on Shop Small Saturday, during the Victorian Stroll, or anytime at Context Collective!"