The Cotton Candy Machine art boutique is bringing a signature mix of art, culture and community to Uptown with a three-month series of weekend pop-up events. Located next to Vinyl Remains at 690 Washington Road, it will showcase a rotating lineup of guest artists, beginning with a grand opening on Saturday, February 15.

Sean Leonard and Tara McPherson of Washington Road are a husband-and-wife team and the co-founders of The Cotton Candy Machine. They moved to Mt. Lebanon three years ago from Brooklyn, New York, where they owned a gallery, and are now excited to introduce their unique collection to a new audience.

McPherson has personal ties to Pittsburgh. Years ago, she spent a summer in the city while her stepfather worked on a film. An artist herself, her work has been showcased at The Andy Warhol Museum. She also held previous pop-up events in the area, including at tattoo artist Hannah Aitchison’s Curiosity Shop.

“Throughout my art career, I’ve been doing pop-up shops all over Europe, South America and Southeast Asia,” McPherson said. “When my first book came out, I thought musicians can tour and travel — why can’t artists? That theme has been consistent throughout my career. So now that we’re not traveling anymore, this pop-up shop experience seemed like a great opportunity for us.”

The pop-ups will exhibit the work of mostly local artists, many of whom specialize in the illustrative style of the new contemporary art movement. The series will kick off with McPherson’s extensive collection, including limited-edition art prints, rock posters, books, designer toys and original sketches.

“Everything is for sale. We are making it easy for people — every print is bagged with a board, so they are sturdy and weatherproof for carrying home,” McPherson explained.

Her work includes both grown-up themes and family-friendly art. “I always try to make my work accessible and interesting for everyone,” McPherson said. “There’s definitely a variety, so people of all ages can enjoy it.”

The boutique will be open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays, with extended hours to be added. Artist receptions will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., allowing guests to meet the artists and explore the work on display.

These events are free and open to the public. Art lovers are encouraged to stop by, immerse themselves in the experience and discover the diverse range of art and culture on display. For the most up-to-date hours and more information, visit thecottoncandymachine.com.