Andrea de Francisco, a long-time creative, has launched MYSTIC at 31 Sunnyside, a vital part of downtown Mill Valley that has exciting history on its side.
“MYSTIC is where creativity and community come together,” says de Francisco. “Our mission is to inspire people of all ages to explore their artistic side through workshops, curated art supplies, and thoughtfully selected gifts. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting your creative journey, MYSTIC is a place where everyone can create, learn, and share.”
Founded by Andrea, whose happy place has always been an art store, MYSTIC was born from a lifelong passion for creativity. As a child, she sold her art door-to-door to neighbors and spent hours making her own puff paint shirts—anything to bring her ideas to life. “That joy for making things by hand has been a constant part of our journey,” she says, pointing to drawing, painting, paper, kits, crafting, sets, fiber arts, sets for kids, and much more, along with tons of gifts and classes as part of her business’ dynamic.
As an adult, Andrea opened several businesses as a form of creative expression. Her favorite part of the process was always in the design—creating menus, designing merchandise and stickers, and making pastry signs. MYSTIC brings all of these experiences together to embrace the idea of creating just to create, making art for the sake of making art, and finding magic in the process.
Rooted in the belief that art has the power to heal and bring people together, MYSTIC hopes to foster connection and personal expression. It’s a space where imagination, community, and creativity flourish.
The Sunnyside block has been home to a bevy of creativity across a range of mediums. The space is the former home of the Weathered Nest vintage home accessories space adjacent to Kitchen Sunnyside restaurant, as well as West Coast Wine • Cheese shop and Waldscraft Artisan Bakery.
In addition, the block has featured bring even more liveliness to a street that also boasts Alexander’s Artisan Rugs, Prabh Indian Kitchen and previously was home to Salvage and The Makery.
“Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting your creative journey, MYSTIC is a place where everyone can create, learn, and share,” she says.