A Premier Gathering of Handcrafted Art.
Made in America.
Unique, artful creations, all found in the heart of historic Yorktown.
Where History Meets Handmade
Nestled within beautiful Riverwalk Landing, we’ve created a premiere gathering of unique artwork infused with love and the creative spirit. From the self-taught to the highly trained, Auntie M has curated a selection of goods made with American hands. From traditional artwork to something a little farther out on the branch, you can find it here.
Upcycled and Repurposed
While striving to steward the earth, you'll find that many of our artists' work has been made by remixing, rethinking, recreating, repurposing and recycling goods in artful ways. Want to try your hand at a little creativity? Enjoy one of our craft kits or make your own creation at our always open Flower Bar.
"Auntie M" got its start in Yorktown in the early 1990s as Marilyn West, who had never become an "aunt," could become one in a business sense by naming her little business "Auntie M's Folk Art." As an avid runner and self-taught artist, West began designing and painting whimsical colonial folk art figures as awards for Yorktown's Fourth of July Freedom Run. Her designs were well received at that race and she was soon asked to produce awards for other local road races.
West has worked with acrylic paint for the past few years creating "green art" by painting her designs on recycled cabinet doors. She relies on her trusty band saw to bring to life other wood designs and is continually looking for ways to incorporate old objects into her work, which is influence by her love of primitive folk art, hooked rugs, quilts and other handiwork of the colonial era.
West opened “Auntie M’s American Cottage in 2013 in historic Yorktown. In addition to her folk art, you will find Auntie M's felted wool pins made from recycled wool sweaters, her whimsical attitude jewelry and many other of her creative tidbits at the cottage. She has hand-picked work from local, regional, and other artists across America to round out the creative mix at the cottage.
What People Are Saying
“Lots of things to see in many different motifs. A hidden jewel in Yorktown to be sure. Shop for gifts or treat yourself.”
“Beautiful handmade items! So much eye candy, it’s a pleasure to shop there.”
