By Amy Harris
On December 14, Mayo Street Arts, a Portland-based community arts organization, will hold the second of a two-part series of holiday artisan markets at their location on Mayo Street. The first market took place on November 7.
Ian Bannon, executive director of Mayo Street Arts, noted that the purpose of the markets includes the preservation and sharing of the traditions and cultures that immigrants bring with them to Maine – as well as some great holiday shopping opportunities.
The November 7 market included Ukrainian Petrykivka folk paintings and Pysanka eggs, Afghan henna tattoos, and textiles and fashion designed by women originally from Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.
ADVERTISEMENT
Amjambo Africa spoke with four of the female artisans who were showcased on November 7: Josieane Mutangana, Maryam Ghulam Hassan, Apphia Kamanda Mpay, and Nanu Batumike. All of the women talked about the personal value they find in creating their work and in sharing it with others.
Josiane Mutangana, originally from Rwanda, is a fashion designer, fabric artist, tailor, and owner of Josiane Fashion House (JFH). She creates women’s and children’s clothing, accessories, and custom pieces using African print fabrics, such as Ankara and Kitenge, to sell both locally and online.
Mutangana said, “As an immigrant, a mother, a Black woman, and a small business owner, sharing my art is not just a business; it’s a way to honor my roots, inspire my daughter, and bring a piece of African culture to Maine. Events like this help build connection, understanding, and pride within a diverse community. I believe Maine becomes richer and more beautiful when we share our cultures openly.”
Hassan, a painter and henna artist from Afghanistan, said, “I love my art and the culture of my country. I decided to take part in this artisan market because it helps me shine more, introduce my culture to others, and also learn about other cultures. It is very important for people to have opportunities to showcase their work, so that others can benefit from this golden chance — and, if they are interested, they can also learn these traditional arts.”
Apphia Kamanda Mpay, originally from Democratic Republic of Congo, is a fashion and costume designer. She is also the co-executive director of Common Threads of Maine, a non-profit offering community sewing classes through the Westbrook Adult education program.
“I come from a family of artists,” Mpay said. “As a child I was sewing with my hands, making stuff for my dolls and my friends. It was like my art was in my blood…Costume design and dressing up are part of my culture. The culture of sapology…Sewing is therapy….I could keep doing what I started in my country. I missed my country and felt a gap. Because this is not the life I was called for, but sewing was a way for me to heal. Today, as a teacher with Common Threads, I can see how sewing keeps my students from being sad.”
Nanu Batumike, also from the Democratic Republic of Congo, sells her custom pieces under her brand Nanuskastyle. Her art combines fashion, upcycling, African-inspired clothing, embellished denim, accessories, and beauty work.
“I agreed to do this artisan market because I believe sharing our art helps people understand each other better. Maine is becoming more diverse, and events like this give artists like me the chance to show our heritage, our skills, and our stories. I also want to inspire others, especially immigrants and women, to use their talents and believe in what they can create… Their (Mayo Street Arts) space feels welcoming, and it gives us a chance to share our work with the community.” Batumike said.
