Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Clark.
Hi Amanda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I moved to Duluth in 2009 to attend UMD. I majored in Studio Art with a primary focus on sculpture and photography. After I graduated, I continued my passion for art but switched gears to graphic design. I worked for a small business for 10 years while also doing freelance graphic design & photography. In 2020 I started painting and that is my current primary medium.
How I ended up at Siiviis Gallery?
In 2021, I was leaning towards a career change, and with the help of a mutual friend, I was introduced to Jan Sivertson who owned Siiviis & Sivertson Gallery in Grand Marais. After many fun & informational meetings, we thought the opportunity was a good fit and I became the new owner of Siiviis Gallery in January 2022.
We agreed to keep the same name and legacy of the store that has been in the heart of Canal Park for over 25 years.
We still remain sister stores with Sivertson Gallery in Grand Marais.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
With every new opportunity, there come lots of new things to learn and people to meet. It has been a joy to get to know all the artists that have been with the gallery since the beginning while also bringing on new local and regional artists.
With the help of our amazing staff and mentorship from many friends, the transition has been more fun and smoother than I imagined.
I am looking forward to my second year!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
For the past few years, I have been diving deep into painting – trying new techniques and subjects.
My most recent series is about Northland animals and their new year’s resolutions. This series used human humility and mannerisms but was portrayed by animals. My next series will be the same Northland animals, but having fun at the beach. This series will go up in early summer.
I am most proud of keeping my art at the forefront of every career path I’ve been on since graduation. Even if my focus has changed, I make sure to keep my creative flow constantly moving. I think what sets me apart from the rest is finding the balance of being an active artist while also maintaining a business that promotes other artists. It’s literally my dream job and I am so thankful for this opportunity.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I don’t think most people know that I am an active artist, not just a gallery owner. I didn’t share this part of my background in the beginning because I wanted to stay focused on getting to know the business, the artists, and everything in between.
I did take a year off from painting to focus on Siiviis Gallery, but over the winter I went full force into a brand new series and I hope to continue to find the balance to fulfill both roles.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @siiviisgallery
- Facebook: @siiviisgallery
