The Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop

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

As springtime rolls in with its chirping birds, blooming flowers, and warmer breezes, it’s time to dive into the season’s festivities. May marks the end of college for graduates ready to step into their next chapter, while Mother’s Day gives us a chance to celebrate the incredible maternal figures in our lives. Then comes June with its wedding bells and Father’s Day tributes. With so many occasions on the horizon, finding the perfect gift can be a bit of a puzzle. Fortunately, our area is a treasure trove of creativity, with local shops and pop-up artist markets making gift hunting a whole lot easier.

One must-visit treasure this season is the Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop, an enchanting boutique-style market highlighting the vibrant local art and craftsmanship of our community. Running from May 2 through June 13, this dynamic event features over 60 talented artists from the Hudson Valley, showcasing an impressive variety of creations. From exquisite glass pieces to unique jewelry, handcrafted greeting cards, textiles, ceramics, and finely crafted wood products, there is something to captivate every visitor. Head over to Arts Mid-Hudson at 696 Dutchess Turnpike in Poughkeepsie to see it all.

For those celebrating recent college graduates, this shop offers a wide selection of homewares that are perfect for the transition from dorm life to their first apartments. Among the highlights are Theresa Gooby’s kitchen towels, featuring original art through hand-screen printing, and Tammy Scotti’s chic purses, totes, and accessories crafted from upcycled clothing. Daniela Velez’s signature candles, with delightful springtime scents, come with hand-burned cork coaster lids, accompanied by floral-etched coasters, bottle openers, jewelry boxes, cutting boards, and more.

In search of the perfect Mother’s Day gift? Look no further. This year, Michelle Mullaly introduces her beautiful hand-painted glasses and pitchers for the first time. The shop has a stellar lineup of jewelers, such as Jessica Sweeney, known for her whimsical clay earrings and necklaces, and Marie Elliot, who transforms vintage silverware into decorative items and stunning jewelry. For new mothers, Lucy Aponte presents hand-knit and crocheted newborn hats and blankets, while June Weldon’s crocheted animals and plants offer perfect snuggle companions.

If woodworking is your passion, as it is for my husband, you’ll be thrilled by the craftsmanship of Roy Bartels, Peter Brown, Oscar Burkowske, and Tony Hung. Their exquisite offerings range from small and large cutting boards to pepper grinders, key chains, and beautifully turned bowls.

With such a diverse selection, this pop-up shop promises to meet all your spring celebration needs. Bring your shopping list and prepare to discover not only the perfect gifts for your loved ones but perhaps a delightful find for yourself as well!

Full List of Participating Artists: Maryam Ali, Lucy Aponte, Roy Bartels, Janet Baskerville, Deborah Bein, Suzanne Bonser, Susan Bores, Peter Brown, Patricia Collins Broun, Oscar Burkowske, Celia Calvo, Mary Jane Carpentier, Donna Castelluccio, Michelle Ciulla, Jamila Dawkins, Carrie Decker, Vitaliia Deriabina, Carolyn Dickey, Christine Domino, Marie Elliott, Peggy Farrington, Mary M Flad, Carol Flaitz, Sarah Ganly, Ilene Goldman, Nereida Gonzalez- Bridges, Theresa Gooby, Cara Hochhalter, Nikki Hung, Tony Hung, Robin Hutchinson, Maggie Inge, Heather Iori, Lynne James, Vanessa Joy, Paul Kmiotek, Pam Krimsky, Linda Lavin, Logan Lesley, Elinor Levy, Maureen Lohan-Bremer, Lynn Lombardi, Alexis Lynch, Diane-Ellen McCarron, Peggy Milone, Chikako Mori, Michelle Mullaly, Polly Perkins, Amy Rosen, Tammy Scotti, Veronica Spaziante, Kat, Spontak, David Spreen, Andrea Stanet, Kim Steinard, Tilly Strauss, Jenny Sweeney, Kayla Thompson, Shirley Tuttle, Daniela Velez, Cass Vincent, Ellen Weinstock, June Weldon, and Barbara Willmer

If you go:
The Spring Dutchess Handmade Pop-Up Shop
May 2 - June 13, 2025
Tuesday - Friday
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturdays (May 3 & 10 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