Artist opens Old Port popup store with palette of workshops

Anysa Williamson Denby inside her shop in Portland.

Photo / Courtesy East Brown Cow Anysa Williamson Denby, a Portland-based artist and entrepreneur, sells a line of handmade bags, accessories, and pillows — all crafted from screen-printed fabrics.

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By Alexis Wells

A Portland artist-turned-entrepreneur has opened a pop-up in the city's Old Port that will sell work by emerging artists and host workshops for customers keen to flex their own creative muscles.

Anysa Williamson Denby, founder of A.W.D. (pronounced "awed") Textile Designs, leased the 5,796-square-foot space, located at 151 Middle St., from East Brown Cow.

“Our vision has always been to attract creative entrepreneurs who bring new energy to Portland’s downtown," said Tim Soley, president of East Brown Cow.

"This is a continuation of our long-standing commitment to community-driven placemaking. A.W.D. Textile Designs exemplifies that experimental, entrepreneurial spirit — and we’re looking forward to seeing her activate the space.”

Denby, a recent graduate of the Maine College of Art and Design, has developed her brand from a small college project into a business that sells handmade bags, accessories and pillows — all crafted from screen-printed fabrics.

“I’ve been selling my work at markets every weekend since college,” Denby said. “Having a permanent space means I can slow down and connect with people in a more intentional way — creating an environment where art feels accessible, joyful and part of everyday life.”

The store will sell works by other emerging artists and makers and host weekly creative workshops. Denby and guest instructors will teach everything from candle making and screen printing to watercolor painting and sewing. Classes will be kept small to encourage community engagement.

“I’ve missed the energy of art school — the collaboration, the curiosity, the sense of shared learning,” said Denby. “I wanted to bring that experience to downtown Portland and give people a space to reconnect with their creative side.”

A.W.D. Textile Designs will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.