The Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop

Melissa Dvozenja-Thomas, Executive Director, Arts Mid-Hudson

As spring settles into the Hudson Valley with longer days, blooming landscapes, and a renewed sense of energy, it also brings a season full of meaningful moments worth celebrating. From graduations and Mother’s Day to weddings, Father’s Day, and everything in between, this time of year invites us to gather, reflect, and show appreciation for the people who matter most. And with so many occasions on the calendar, finding a gift that feels personal and thoughtful can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, our region is rich with creativity, making it easier and far more enjoyable to shop locally and find something truly unique.

One standout destination this season is the Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop, which opens on April 30 through June 12, 2026, at 696 Dutchess Turnpike in Poughkeepsie. This boutique-style shopping experience transforms local artistry into an inviting, one-of-a-kind marketplace. Featuring over 65 Hudson Valley artists and makers, the shop offers a carefully curated selection of handcrafted goods across a wide range of categories. Visitors will discover everything from ceramics and jewelry to textiles, woodworking, and specialty gifts, all created by artists right here in our community.

This year’s shop features a strong lineup of ceramic artists, including Susannah Pugsley, Catalina Vilato, and Angela Engongoro, whose work ranges from functional pottery to expressive, handcrafted pieces that bring beauty into everyday use. Lynne James offers elegant stoneware and porcelain pottery, while Peggy Farrington’s smaller works, like heart dishes and decorative accents, make perfect, meaningful gifts.

Jewelry lovers will find no shortage of inspiration, with artists like Marie Elliott, who transforms vintage silverware into distinctive, wearable pieces, and Erica Everett, whose unique postage stamp jewelry incorporates stamps from around the world into colorful, story-filled designs. Alongside them, other jewelers featured in the shop offer everything from delicate, everyday pieces to bold statement work, making it easy to find something that feels both personal and one-of-a-kind.

Textile artists bring warmth and texture into the mix with makers like Maureen Van Ackooy and Beth Creighton, whose handcrafted pieces reflect both skill and creativity. From thoughtfully designed wearable items to textile-based home goods, their work adds comfort, color, and a personal touch to everyday living.

Woodworking is another standout category this year, featuring the craftsmanship of artists like Roy Bartels, Peter Brown, Nicole Hughes, and Daneila Velez. Their work includes beautifully finished cutting boards, charcuterie sets, and finely crafted functional pieces that combine artistry with everyday utility.

What makes this experience especially compelling is not just the variety, but the story behind each piece. Every item reflects the creativity, skill, and perspective of the artist who made it. Whether you’re selecting a gift for a graduate starting a new chapter, a parent who deserves something meaningful, or a friend celebrating a milestone, there’s an opportunity to give something that carries a deeper connection.

Full List of Participating Artists: Amelia Acerra, Maryam Ali, Lucy Aponte, Carlise Azmitia, Roy Bartels, Janet Baskerville, Deborah Bein, Suzanne Bonser, Susan Bores, Patricia Broun, Peter Brown, Celia Calvo, Donna Castelluccio, Beth Creighton, Helen Crohn, Madeleine Cutrona, Jamila Dawkins, Daisy De Puthod, Carolyn Dickey, Susan DiGilio, Melissa Earle, Jennifer Edwards, Marie Elliott, Angela Engongoro, Erica Everett, Peggy Farrington, Alice Fogarty, Isabella Gemmati, Ilene Goldman, Nereida Gonzalez-Bridges, Theresa Gooby, Eileen Hendriksen, Karen Heusel, Heaven Hudson, Nicole Hughes, Nikki Hung, Heather Iori, Lynne James, Vanessa Joy, Mike Jurkovic, David King, Paul Kmiotek, Linda Lau, Linda Lavin, Gillian Leslie, Rachel Lockett, Alexis Lynch, Diane-Ellen McCarron, Doreen Miller, Peggy Milone, Renee Pasquale, David Press, Marilyn Price, Nicole Puckette, Susannah Pugsley, Sonia Reynoso, Tammy Scotti, Veronica Spaziante, Elizabeth St. Leger, Kim Steinard, Ann Trocchia, Shirley Tuttle, Maureen Van Ackooy, Daniela Velez, Catalina Vilato, Cass Vincent, Ellen Weinstock, June Weldon, Phyllis West, Barbara Willmer, and Elizabeth Young.

If you go:
The Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop
April 30 - June 12, 2026
Monday - Friday
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturdays (May 2, 9 & 16 only)
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: 696 Dutchess Turnpike, Ste F, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
info@artsmidhudson.org
www.artsmidhudson.org/dutchess-handmade