Interview with Fairbanks Artist Ethan Lauesen

Ethan Lauesen is a visual artist based in Fairbanks, Alaska. They earned their BFA from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2019. The body of work they create focuses on the cultural aspects of gender and LGBTQIA+ identity and how they are perceived in communities, specifically Interior Alaska. The work they produce is more intimate as a response to cultural perceptions of themselves due to inter-sectional issues of race, gender, and sexuality and as a result the prints, paintings, and drawings created represent a personal narrative documenting cultural change.

Website: www.ethanjlauesen.com

Instagram: @siawyn_art

Ethan Lauesen’s exhibition For Your Comfort, originally scheduled for display at IGCA this month, was postponed due to Covid-19 and will now be presented in May 2021. As a kind of preview for next year’s exhibition, Ethan sent some new etchings down from Fairbanks for display in the IGCA windows this month. Ethan also took the time to talk with gallery manager Karinna Gomez about their art. Listen to the interview below.

Ethan Lauesen, applying chine collé to their etching For My Comfort, in the UAF printmaking studio.

Ethan Lauesen, applying chine collé to their etching For My Comfort, in the UAF printmaking studio.

Etchings by Ethan Lauesen on display in the IGCA windows in May 2020.

Etchings by Ethan Lauesen on display in the IGCA windows in May 2020.

UAA BFA Students Window Displays and Q&As

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, University of Alaska Anchorage BFA seniors were not able to hold their thesis exhibitions in the UAA Kimura Gallery this spring. Two of the four BFA students, Aileen Page and Kimberlyn Sheldon, have shared a preview of their work in our windows this month. In this post we are sharing a little about each of these artists along with images of their work.

To see images and information about all four BFA students’ thesis projects, go to the UAA Art Department Facebook page.

Aileen Page

Aileen Page’s thesis work on display in the IGCA windows in downtown Anchorage (May 6-20, 2020).

Aileen Page’s thesis work on display in the IGCA windows in downtown Anchorage (May 6-20, 2020).

Aileen Page lives in Eagle River, Alaska. She graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage as a Bachelor of Fine Arts Ceramic major in 2020. Her work frequently focuses on figurative subject matter that touches on ideas of vulnerability, comfort and anxiety and explores how these feelings are communicated through body language. Aileen has exhibited work locally in the Hugh McPeck Gallery, as well as in the IGCA group shows. She received the Juror’s Choice Award for the national No Big Heads juried show in 2017 and was runner up in the 2018 Student Juried Art Show. Aileen was awarded the 2018 Alaska Watercolor Society and Alaska Artist Guild Scholarship and the Undergraduate Research Grant from the Honors College at UAA. She spent the summer of 2019 as a ceramic assistant for Bruce Dehnert at Peters Valley School of Craft in New Jersey.

Can you tell us a little about your background? Where did you grow up, for instance?
My dad was in the army so I moved around a lot when I was a kid, but I have lived in Alaska for the past 15 years. I grew up learning German from my mom and English from my dad.

What led you to the BFA program at UAA?
I have always heard good things about UAA's art department. After High School I received two scholarships that for the most part covered my tuition if I stayed in state. During my first year I didn't really know what direction I wanted to go in, but after taking some art classes, and really loving them, I decided to go with what interested me most. Art was the only subject I felt passionate enough to peruse a degree in. The BFA program allowed me to take several different art studio classes, it was hard for me to decide on a discipline, but ultimately I chose ceramics as my primary focus.

Aileen Page. Aversion, 2019. Earthenware.

Aileen Page. Aversion, 2019. Earthenware.

Aileen Page. Slump, 2019. Earthenware.

Aileen Page. Slump, 2019. Earthenware.

Can you describe your BFA thesis project for us?
My thesis explores how emotions that are visibly expressed through body language. It is also about perspective and changing how one perceives these, often times intense, emotions.  

What's next now that you've graduated?
It's hard to know what's going to happen next, especially during a pandemic, but I do have my heart set on continuing to work with clay. I would like to continue to develop my skills and continue my education by doing a post bacc.

Do you have a website and/or social media pages where people can find your work online?  
Instagram: @page_aileen

Kimberlyn Sheldon

Kimberlyn’s thesis work on display in the IGCA windows (May 20-June 3, 2020).

Kimberlyn’s thesis work on display in the IGCA windows (May 20-June 3, 2020).

Kimberlyn Sheldon is an Iñupiaq painter and 2020 graduate from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. Using oil paint as a medium, Sheldon creates art which displays a mix of surrealism and realism. It’s through the act of transforming photographs into paintings that Sheldon begins to understand her subject matter on a psychological level. Throughout her exploration as an oil painter, Sheldon has sought to create a visual representation of the duality that defines her heritage and culture as a government-labeled ½ Iñupiaq woman. By representing her internal conflicts and perception of the world, Sheldon seeks to create conversation, acknowledge history, and gain a better understanding of her truth.

Can you tell us a little about your background? Where did you grow up, for instance?
I grew up in the Iñupiaq village of Noorvik which is located in the northwest region of Alaska. Growing up in Noorvik, I spent time with family and friends outdoors, played multiple sports, and learned seasonal subsistence. I came to Anchorage at the age of 18 in order to pursue a bachelor’s degree at UAA. 

What led you to the BFA program at UAA?
I’ve always loved drawing, and I began taking drawing classes at UAA with art being my minor. I took a painting class as an elective and fell in love with oil paints. I decided to make Fine Arts my major and dedicate my undergraduate years to painting.

Kimberlyn Sheldon. Paaqlaktautaiññiq, 2020. Oil on canvas. 7’ x 9’.

Kimberlyn Sheldon. Paaqlaktautaiññiq, 2020. Oil on canvas. 7’ x 9’.

Can you describe your BFA thesis project for us?
My BFA thesis consists of a triptych titled Paaqlaktautaiññiq and is oil on canvas. Paaqlaktautaiññiq is an Iñupiaq cultural value which translates to “Avoidance of Conflict”. Through my thesis project I have explored what Paaqlaktautaiññiq means to me and how I’ve embodied it through my actions and perceptions of society. My BFA thesis project has been a journey of self-discovery and an effort to reflect on past choices, current social issues, and my reactions to these things. 

What's next now that you've graduated?
Graduating in 2020 has proven to be a tricky thing, but now that I’ve completed my BFA degree I plan to continue painting, learning, and growing as an artist. I’ve decided to take a break from formal education and plan to return to my home region of northwest Alaska to reconnect with family, friends, and the land.

Do you have a website and/or social media pages where people can find your work online?
You can find me on Instagram at the username: @kimberlyn.sheldon. I use this page to display current and past works and connect with people interested in art and Inupiaq culture.

Q&A With Anchorage-Area Artist Ruby Suzanna

Ruby Suzanna is one of the artists whose exhibitions had to be postponed due to Covid-19. Originally scheduled for exhibition this month, Ruby will now present new work in January 2021. In the meantime, we are sharing this wonderful Q&A with Ruby where you can learn more about the artist and her projects. Thanks to Ruby for taking the time to do this interview and for sharing so much insight into her artistic work and process. We are looking forward to Ruby’s midwinter exhibition!

PEARL, Church of Love in Spenard, Anchorage, AK, 2017, by Ruby Suzanna

PEARL, Church of Love in Spenard, Anchorage, AK, 2017, by Ruby Suzanna

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Bird Creek Alaska just south of Anchorage. I have always felt at home here. My mother worked for the state highway department as a heavy equipment operator and my father was a carpenter throughout my childhood. My father is also a fine artist and musician, he is a celebrated pointillist and has his art in collections around the world. My mother is a gardener - always tending to our wild 3-acre lot every year producing a huge vegetable garden, and flowers in every corner of the property and around every building. My mother is also a mountain runner, a feminist, and art collector. I lived briefly in Florida for a year and a half and I also lived in Los Angeles for 2 years – but Alaska is my home and it called me back. I would say my second home is Los Angeles and I get there usually 2-3 times a year.

For those that don’t know about your art, can you give us an introduction?

My art is always changing it feels like but usually comes with a specific aesthetic that I think is recognizable as my own. At University I studied printmaking, painting, theater and dance - there wasn’t really an opportunity at that time in the art department to create the type of digital installation work I’ve been doing a lot of lately. However UAA was an incredible place to study and get my art degree - the arts professors like Kat Tomka and Garry Kaulitz encouraged me - sometimes begrudgingly - to pursue performative work and installation work as part of my class work. They offered a flexibility with me to sort of write my own degree, and investigate the type of work I was interested in and produce it as part of class work. For instance Kat Tomka encouraged me to write an undergraduate research and scholarship grant, and gave me an incomplete for her ‘Experimental Drawing’ class and allowed me to create my first large evening length performance art piece that used dance, costume design, set design, and projections the following year. This was in 2005 and there wasn’t really a word for ‘projection mapping’ yet - but that was one of the visions for that show. That was the beginning of my work as it has manifested today. I always was involved in theater and dance at UAA getting my minor in Dance. I really used the entire facility of the arts building at UAA to spring board myself into multidisciplinary work. I created 2 New Dances performances which were more very strange performance art pieces then dance pieces - I was encouraged by Brian Jeffery and the entire Dance Department to create as part of their community even when not a lot of ‘Dancing’ took place in my work. Both New Dances performances had Projections as an element. Almost all of my work includes projected light and video in some way and now as I’ve progressed my work has become almost completely projection based. 

My work is a mixture of immersive installation where the audience is invited into spaces to interact with them and performances where the audience is invited to observe spaces and performances passively. Some of my favorite works are The Velvet Room where a small space was covered completely in black velvet including table, chair, performer and various objects and the audience was invited into the room to have a visual and tactile experience, and PEARL a performance that took place at the Church Of Love in Spenard where 7 performers interacted inside of a large forced perspective box that was covered 360 degrees in projections as scenic and lighting elements. 

What inspires you to make art?

It’s always different. Usually I start with an image, a scene or some sort or technical thing I want to do and I proceed from there. Usually while I’m trying to figure out how to build a particular thing that is usually not super well thought out yet I am able to fill in the holes as I go. It can feel really unsettling to work this way. It’s like clawing in the dark at something. I collaborate a lot with very talented performers, musicians, and designers and I depend on them a lot to help me find those jumping off places. Sometimes I feel like all I do is gather up all the pieces, and means, and then I attempt to put them together. I set deadlines, and try to come up with equipment and funding and space etc. I try to bring together people I am inspired by - they - more then anything else bring the work out and into fruition.

You've had a few installations at the IGCA in the past, including Bed Chamber in 2014 and Dirty Panties in 2010. Can you tell us about these installations?

Bed Chamber, International Gallery of Contemporary Art, Anchorage, AK, 2014, by Ruby Suzanna

Bed Chamber, International Gallery of Contemporary Art, Anchorage, AK, 2014, by Ruby Suzanna

Both of these installations took place in the back gallery guest room. ‘Dirty Panties’ was an installation I created right out college - a comment on innocence, puberty and growing up. It was also a comment on feminine cleanliness, purity, shame and the idea that naturally occurring and biologically normal female occurrences like vaginal discharge and vaginal bleeding etc. was something many women and girls keep hidden and are slightly ashamed of – exp. throwing your soiled underwear away in a public bathroom, hiding your panties in the bottom of the hamper, and the old saying of ‘never go out wearing dirty underwear in case something happens and the doctors and nurses may see them if you’re hurt’ - as if that’s something to worry about in those instances. The show became a metaphor for the shame we carry with us and keep hidden - our basic humanity conflicting with our outward portrayals. The exhibition featured a curtain of dirty underwear, and dirty underwear scattered all over the floor overflowing from hampers and wash bins with their soiled crotches on full display. I gathered old underwear from my female community and altered them with blood, food coloring, yogurt, and cottage cheese to mimic typical discharge. The back wall of the gallery featured a black and white film of my niece who was about 7 or 8 at the time in a white, frilly dress swinging on the swings and also playing in the sand box with a pair of adult underwear grinding handfuls of sand and mud into the crotch of the panties. Not very many people actually entered the gallery - as to get in you had to walk through the curtain of panties - but you could still watch the film through the negative spaces in the curtain. 

‘Bedchamber’ was an installation I created while I was suffering from pretty deep depression and addiction issues. There was a time in my life where I felt like I was in bed so much I was creating a divot or impression in it. And that’s how that installation came into being. At the time I hadn’t heard of or seen Tracey Emins piece ‘My Bed’ that was created in 1998. If I had I may have not created my piece at all. The back guest room gallery is almost shaped like a hallway - long and skinny - with this piece I put the bed on the far back wall and arranged the wall hangings etc. on an angle so it felt like you were falling into the bed. I cut a hole in the bed in the shape of my body so it looked as though someone had laid in the same spot for years. I used very minimal projections to make the bed and parts of the room slightly glow. I carpeted the room and hung wallpaper. The room was scattered with trash, laundry, cigarettes, prescription bottles etc. Bedchamber was a way for me to communicate with myself about how I was living my life and a sort of plea with myself to get out of it. It took many years after that exhibition to find recovery.

Experiment 0.01, Out North Gallery, Anchorage, AK, 2019, by Ruby Suzanna

Experiment 0.01, Out North Gallery, Anchorage, AK, 2019, by Ruby Suzanna

Can you tell us about some of your recent installation projects?

I have been interested in using inflatables in combination with projections and light for quite a few years - but I hadn’t ever taken the time or opportunity to explore it. I think inflation and inflatable sculpture is a very cheap and impactful way to take up large spaces and make them interactive and interesting. One of the challenges is you need a large space to actually build them! You need a lot of floor or studio space, so I usually need flexibility to be in whatever venue I’m creating the work inside of in order to build the work. This is true for most of my recent work. The more time I can occupy the space and create the work in its final environment the more transformative, immersive, experimental and detailed I can be. These are all aspects of creating I value and strive for. But I have found that is usually pretty unrealistic for most spaces as you need to accommodate for other artists, events and space uses. 

My most recent work can best described as ‘light bubbles’ I’ve been creating giant inflatables (bubbles) and inviting small audience groups to enter into them for a short period of time. During that time I will project 360 animations on to the outside of the translucent bubble so the audience is completely enveloped in light and imagery. I’ve also been collaborating with local musicians like NRRTH and Sophia Street - they provide beautiful and unique soundscapes and songs for me to respond to and edit my 360 projections to. I’ve been calling these pieces ‘Experiments’ so that I don’t attach a lot of preciousness or importance on them while I’m making them. They truly are experiments for me - and I’ve been trying to allow myself to fail while making them so that I can hopefully find what’s possible. I truly don’t know what’s going to happen or how these pieces are going to turn out usually until the day they are finished, which is usually the day that the audience is invited to view and experience them.

Are you able to share anything about the process involved in the conception, planning and execution of your performance/installation works? 

I think I’ve already gone into this quite a bit in my previous answers but I can say that when I’m making new work it’s very temporal and ephemeral. It goes up and gets ripped down never to be recreated again. When MTS Gallery was still around they had these OPEN/CLOSE events and for those events there was usually a performative element at them. These were ‘One Time Only’ events and I really cut my teeth creating performance work for them. Bruce Farnsworth and the invitations and support I got from him to create at these events really shaped how I create work to this day.

When I’m making a new work I really ‘move in’ to whatever space I’m creating for. I usually eat lots of sushi and cookies and drink lots coffee and kombucha and pretty much spend 12-14 hours in the space every day until the work is done – which could be anywhere from a week to a month. Performers come by and we have rehearsals, designers come by and we discuss problems and solutions, and friends and colleagues come by and help me do things I can’t do by myself and the rest of the time I spend alone in the space usually staring at nothing. Because the piece usually only happens one time, and it usually lasts only fleetingly I really try to capture those moments in their very best light and there is always more to do. I never want to be at the closing and rip down of a show and feel like if I had just stayed one or two more hours and ironed the curtains or tested the mechanism etc. the show and experience for the audience could’ve been better. Nothing is ever perfect and you can never get every detail done but I always like I try as hard as I can for each show to feel like a complete and detailed experience for the audience. I want them to feel immersed in the work as completely as possible. When I’m working in this way I also try to make sure I’m getting plenty of sleep and rest. I don’t do ‘all-nighters’ or anything like that. My brain and creativity rested, watered and fed is more effective then any amount of hours spent exhausted and hungry. So the process for me has to stay balanced. I find solutions come easier that way.

The plans for my work seem to almost always have been forming in great detail sort of behind the scenes of my mind. While I’m making them I rarely feel like I have a road map but looking back I usually see the landmarks I had along the way - images I had been collecting, skills I had been researching and nurturing, objects I have been collecting etc. On almost EVERY SINGLE project, installation, performance and show I have created I have been certain at one point or multiple points that it wouldn’t come together, that I had no idea what I was doing, that I didn’t have enough time and I always considered cancelling them multiple times before opening. Bruce Farnsworth when he ran MTS Gallery talked me off the ledge multiple times. Every project has had a moment or days of pure dread where I look down the barrel and it all feels completely impossible. In fact I even thought about cancelling this exhibition I had scheduled for May feeling secret relief when Covid came along and cancelled it for me. It’s part of the process for me. I almost never know what I’m doing or how I’m going to pull it off, I never feel like I have the time, skills or resources to get the show up and done. I have learned over time to allow that fear to help drive me forward on a project - to allow for it to help me and motivate me to get to work, to ask for help, to research and experiment and make a plan. I don’t know if recommend pure fear and anxiety as a motivator for other artists and creators but it does seem to be the way I go about it. 

Experiment 0.02, Anchorage Museum, Anchorage, AK, 2019, by Ruby Suzanna

Experiment 0.02, Anchorage Museum, Anchorage, AK, 2019, by Ruby Suzanna

How do you like collaborating with musicians or other performers?

I couldn’t make the work I make without other artists and collaborators. I am completely dependent on the talents of others to bring my work to life. I always need help, I always need inspiration and I always need collaborators. That doesn’t mean I’m very good at it, or that it comes naturally or that there isn’t conflict and tension and miscommunication. That is always there. I’m not always graceful, or open, or easy to get along with - but I’m working on it. I hope I am at least getting better at it. Collaborating with local musicians is very new for me, I’ve always in the past used music that’s already been recorded or created from more mainstream artists. Musicians are fascinating and inspiring to work with and it comes with all kinds of different challenges then say collaborating with an actor, dancer, or designer. I have found that collaborating with musicians is incredibly inspiring and unique - the artistic language is very different. And music is central to the work I create - it’s the mood and it’s really the foundation and building blocks from which it all springs. 

I love collaborating with dancers and performers. I am so inspired by them. I also am very intimidated by the process even after all of these years... I’ve studied Dance and Acting and have performed a bit myself but usually the artists I work with have far surpassed me in their skill level. They are professionals, and they are also looking to me to guide them. It feels like when I am leading a rehearsal with a group of performers that I’m on stage and it’s opening night and have forgotten all of my lines! It’s terrifying! I only have these vague ideas of what I want and how we can go about getting it out and on the stage. It’s something I really want to get better at. The performers I work with though have always been very willing and eager and understanding - and we are usually able to figure it out and get into a groove of creation. I try to bring my most honest and kind self to each rehearsal - and I try to bring all of my attention to the task at hand. I’m hoping to continue to collaborate with choreographers, dancers and performers in the coming years and to support them in their craft by creating elaborate settings and worlds for them to be immersed in and guide their audiences into. 

Spanning painting, printmaking, performance art, production and costume design, you cover a range of media in your practice. How do these different ways of working influence one another?

Printmaking is where my journey began but I haven’t pulled a print in years. Prints draw you in - there is almost a mystery and alchemy about the images you create when pulling prints. It’s also counter-intuitive, everything comes out backwards and in its opposite. It’s labor intensive, time consuming, precise and repetitive. All of these qualities in printmaking have created a base from which I work - it’s kind of prepped me for the frustration, tediousness and surprise of all the other mediums I work in. Working in production, set, costume and projection design has really been something that has come out of necessity from creating my own work. Unfortunately I can never pay the craftsman, artisans, designers and performers what they deserve and sometimes I can’t pay them anything at all. I have been very lucky and I am eternally grateful to all of the people who have donated their time and energy to creating work together and with me. I have never made a profit off of any show I have ever done – or paid myself, and all grant money, ticket sales and payment I have ever received has gone into the materials and fees directly associated with the work. But because of this I’ve had to do my own costumes, my own scenic designs, etc. and I will say that doing the work yourself does help you when you’re creating your production plans, your budgets and your schedules because you are armed with more knowledge about what it takes. Having that knowledge also tends to head off conflict in the collaboration process because you have an understanding of what you are asking of people, and how realistic those asks are. It also helps to manage your own expectations and what is reasonable which gives you a clearer vision of what kind of work to expect from your collaborators and co-creators and you can adjust the overall vision and show accordingly. 

Can you tell us anything about what you have planned for your exhibition at IGCA, which was originally scheduled for this month but, due to Covid-19, has been rescheduled to January 2021?

I wish I could! I know that I will be working again with inflation, projections, soundscape and installation. I would also like to if possible throw in some performative elements. I’m currently 8.5 months pregnant and so I think this upcoming show in January will be very interesting and I will have to adjust my process of creation quite a bit as I’ll have a little one to look after while I try to create and install. This is a new journey for me and I’m excited but also nervous how this will effect my process - I’m sure the terror and certainty of not being able to finish will be even more pronounced then before! 

How do you spend your time when not working on art?

I work in television production and that can be all consuming at times. I’ve been on the production team creating the show Life Below Zero for the past 6 years. I also just purchased a home in Hiland Valley and my partner and I have been trying to get settled and moved in - the home needs major work and renovations and although I can’t say I’ve helped a ton, it is still a lot of work. I’m also as I mentioned working on creating a baby and I think that will also become an additional full time job once we get to meet them out here in the world with us. I am currently 2.5 years sober from drugs and alcohol - I mention it here because it has had a huge impact on my life and my creative energy and pursuits. It hasn’t fixed everything, and it wasn’t a magic solution to all my problems or creative struggles and roadblocks but it has given me clarity, and perspective. I still waste time and money but a lot less and on different things - and I will say that showing up for myself, showing up for others and staying true to my commitments is easier. 

How can we find you on social media and the web? 

I am terrible at maintaining an online website and presence. I need to work on it. Perhaps during this quarantine I will create my website.

I do post some of my work on Instagram @rubysuzannaprojects - feel free to follow me there and check out past projects as well.

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See videos of Ruby’s recent work by accessing the links below:

PEARL, The Church of Love Spenard, 2017

Experiment 0.01, Out North Gallery, 2019

Experiment 0.02 Featuring NRRTH, Anchorage Museum, 2019

Apoptosis PCD (Performance as part of New Dances), University of Alaska Anchorage Main Stage, 2013

Members Exhibition Window Displays

Since we closed the gallery to the public in mid-March due to covid-19, we have been rotating nearly all of the artworks included in our 2020 Members Exhibition in the gallery windows. A handful of artworks were logistically difficult to install on our display racks and so they didn’t make into the window displays, but all of the artworks can be viewed in our artist feature blog posts from the last month highlighting every member artist included in the exhibition, so make sure you check that out too. If you are interested in purchasing, go to our online shop. Here is a selection of images of our March/April 2020 window displays, click on the individual picture for more detail.

National Volunteer Month

The IGCA is a non-profit and primarily volunteer-run organization. We have a volunteer board of directors and volunteers keep the gallery open (during non-pandemic times of course) by gallery sitting throughout each month. The IGCA could not exist without our generous, dedicated, kind and talented volunteers.

April is National Volunteer Month and, in celebration, we have prepared a series of profiles featuring many of our regular volunteers so that you can learn more about these fabulous people in our community! We hope you enjoy reading these Q&A profiles and, when we re-open to the public, you can visit the gallery to meet our wonderful volunteers in person. We are truly lucky that they are part of the IGCA.

Thank you to all of our volunteers for your time and involvement with the gallery, and a special thank you to those that took the time to share your stories and insights with us all through the Q&A! ❤️

Kelly Brabec

Kelly Brabec

Kelly Brabec

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in the Midwest among farms and fertile soils. After college, and without hesitation, I moved to Nome, Alaska for work, wisdom, and wonder. More than 20 years have passed and I am still in awe of the Last Frontier's magnetic pull in my life and in my heart. Currently, my spouse and I are exploring Anchorage as our new home after taking a couple of years off to travel, reconnect, and cultivate the lives we've been given.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

I've been volunteering at IGCA for six months and deeply enjoy my time at the gallery surrounded by beautiful art created by beautiful people. I believe art is everywhere and for everybody. IGCA is a space where connection happens and sharing occurs, revealing and reinforcing creative communities and authentic collaborations. I'm into this kind of thing so, naturally, I wanted to be a part of it.

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

I also volunteer with the Anchorage Concert Association and am a member of KNBA's Community Advisory Board. On Monday nights I'm behind the mic at KONR-LP / 106.1 FM / Out North Radio hosting my show, Whisper & Roar, playing a little bit of this and a little bit of that for a little bit of everyone.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

I'm not a professionally educated or trained artist but I've always been attracted to vivid creativity, incorporating it into my life in a variety of ways. As a kid, I taught myself to draw cartoons and make storyboards. As a teen, my artistic expression was steered in the direction of thrifting and vintage clothing. During these years I found a silver-blue, 1950's American Tourister Cosmetic Case and have been storing my art supplies in it ever since. In college, I would purposely spend some weekends in my room painting, listening to Ani DiFranco, and drinking wine. I was working toward a Communications major, so creativity came in the forms of video, audio, and film projects as well. As of now, I still drink wine but my art has been on a smaller scale. A sketchbook and blank notecards, some ink pens, and my iPhone camera.

I appreciate the reach art has. I grew up in a big family; resourcefulness, creativity, and self-expression were valued and encouraged. Essential.

I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

Natalie Chomyk-Daniels making paper.

Natalie Chomyk-Daniels making paper.

Natalie Chomyk-Daniels

Can you tell us a little about your background?

Natalie grew up in Ohio and lived there until the age of about 26. In school she majored in art and minored in art education and went on to teach high school art in Ohio. She then moved to Alaska, drawn by the outdoors, and ended up staying. Natalie has since lived in Anchorage with a brief time outside for about 5 years when she taught papermaking at the Southern Oregon University in Ashland. She returned to Alaska in 2017.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

Natalie has been a volunteer with the gallery since it moved to its current location on D Street. She was involved with the renovation of the current space and says that it was really exciting to be part of the gallery’s physical transformation. She says there were a number of artists involved in renovating the gallery, which used to be a flower shop and then a restaurant, and it was inspiring to watch these artists harness their skills to transform the space into a gallery.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

Natalie says that she values the dedicated time to be present in the gallery where she can really focus on the artwork on display. She remarks that being able to just immediately shift her thinking to art when she enters the gallery is what she loves about gallery sitting. Interacting with the people that come to visit is also a real joy for her.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

She has enjoyed all of the recent shows, but was really taken with the June 2019 exhibition Birds on the Edge: Dynamic Boundaries. Natalie’s love of birds as well as the thought-provoking artworks exploring the birds of Alaska made this show memorable for her.

What do you love about Anchorage?

Natalie says she appreciates the diversity of Anchorage and loves being surrounded by the mountains.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Papermaking is Natalie's focus right now. She is fascinated by plants that are indigenous to an area. Papermaking allows her to combine her love of hiking, running and observing nature with art through the physical harvesting of plants while outdoors and incorporating them into whatever is conceptually involved in her life at that time. While she finds all plants enjoyable to work with in all stages of their life cycles, when asked if she has a favorite local plant to work with, she says rhubarb! The fibers are very strong and it is a fun plant to experiment with.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

Natalie has been busy harvesting plants for future papermaking projects as an excuse to get out into the outdoors in the local areas.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

Natalie was instrumental in helping found dog parks in Anchorage! She and 5 other women that used to walk their dogs in the APU area got together and decided that they should have a place for dogs to gather like people had in other states. The first one they founded was the University Lake Dog Park at APU and the second was the Connors Bog Dog Park. She has even made paper with dog fur and has done workshops with dog park goers to learn to make paper with their dogs’ fur :)

Ann Gray

Ann Gray

Ann Gray

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I was born in India but by the age of three I moved to England with my mother. A year later my father joined us and we started a new life in London. My childhood in London was very “normal”. I went through the milestones of Primary School, Grammar School, Sunday school, piano lessons, a new brother! I always loved Art and would get the bus into London mainly to visit the Tate Gallery. Then came college in Brighton, Sussex. I studied Art and education with the thought of becoming a teacher.

While a student I met my late husband Ken Gray who was studying civil engineering. Then he too became drawn to art and left his civil engineering job for Art School. We came to Anchorage in 1981 with our family because of an opening for Ken at UAA. It is amazing how one thing leads to another.  

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA?

I have been volunteering at IGCA for many years, but most regularly since I retired from teaching, ten years ago. The Gallery has been part of my life since Dave Felker started it back in the 80s. The location has moved around town, but it remains very important in providing a non-commercial space for artists’ shows, workshops and the Arts community in general.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

Yes, gallery sitting can be a very solitary time. I usually take a backpack loaded with a variety of potential activities: a camera, a sketchpad, a book to read, a sandwich etc. just in case! The first thing I do is to enjoy the opportunity to look at the art without distraction. I also enjoy the sun as it often plays through the windows, reflections and the changing street activity (sometimes taking photos).

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

A show that stood out to me was David Pettibone’s exhibit of his large paintings of subsistence whale hunting. I was fascinated by the details and skill that he put into his paintings. I really enjoy all the shows, but I also particularly enjoy printmaking shows.

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

A funny story? I don’t have any one funny story, but I do enjoy talking to the people that come into the Gallery, especially if they are the exhibiting artists.

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

Other Arts organizations that I am involved with, apart from gallery sitting, include volunteering with Anchorage Story Works. This a nonprofit organization that supports educators and high school students who are interested in developing story telling skills.

What do you love about Anchorage?

It took a while for Anchorage to grow on me. After many years I have changed and Anchorage has blossomed. I now enjoy its large town feel, which has the intimacy of a small town. It has a vibrant arts community with galleries and theatres both big and small, and live music. There is so much talent right here! Anchorage also has easy access to trails and the beautiful outdoors and wilderness. People here seem to appreciate both and I’m happy to live here.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Am I an artist? The term artist has always been a broad term in my mind. I feel like one sometimes since I do make images, photos, and prints. I have always enjoyed printmaking and have exhibited in IGCA group shows.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

My behavior has been scattered, but I have been organizing some family photos, taking photos to make funny books for my granddaughter and I have also enjoyed making bread too.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

I appreciate having the opportunity to gallery sit and have a close and quiet view of the art. Of course it is great when we have visitors coming in and I hope that the word gets out to draw in more members of the public to the Gallery.

Dianne Gillis-Robinson in her Blacksburg studio.

Dianne Gillis-Robinson in her Blacksburg studio.

Dianne Gillis-Robinson

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I was raised in an Air Force family. I had lived in seven US States and Japan by the time I graduated from high school, in a little farming town of Limestone, Maine. Of my sixty three fellow graduating seniors, I also participated in the potato harvest and worked on a combine harvester separating rocks from potatoes. Graduating from such a small community school, I did not have the opportunity to develop an art portfolio, but I did illustrate some of the yearbook. My greatest desire was to attend art school after graduation, but due to a generous offer from my parents to attend university and study anything BUT art, I obtained a B.S. in Marketing.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

I have been volunteering for about a year, after returning to Alaska for the third time. This is my first volunteer opportunity relating to art, having volunteered in a variety of organizations like Big Brothers/Big Sisters to starting a non-profit organization some fifteen years ago. Art and supporting the arts are my focus now, so volunteering at IGCA was a natural fit.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

I actually enjoy the four hours that I have to enjoy the exhibitions, explore what I think the artist is conveying and to meet fellow supporters of the arts when they visit. On days when we don’t have many visitors, the quiet of the gallery allows me to read a book, sketch or just daydream.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I enjoyed volunteering during the Stephen Gray exhibit. Seeing the varied reactions and impressions from visitors and watching how they engaged with his art was exciting to see. I feel that each exhibit gifts a little insight into the artist and art itself so it is difficult to choose my favorite!

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

This winter had a few cold snaps so wearing my mittens and heavy boots while volunteering was a uniquely Anchorage experience. By the next time I volunteered, Joe had done a fine job of repairing the heating, but I was dressed for the North Slope so I was feeling a little “tropical” that day!

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

Because I divide my time between Anchorage and our farm in Blacksburg, Virginia, I belong to a regional arts organization there. I also am a member of the Alaska Artist Guild.

What do you love about Anchorage?

So, because I have moved around so often (seventeen times so far) and never lived anywhere longer than seven years, I consider Anchorage my home. My son was born here and my daughter began kindergarten an Northern Lights ABC back when it was in Spenard. I love how Anchorage embraces the darkness of our winter months with lights and festivals. And I love how Anchorage attracts people from around the world and how their stories and backgrounds have made this city a little quirky but wildly interesting.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Yes, (big happy sigh), I am an artist. Finally. After years of fitting the odd sketch or painting into a busy life, I am now able to devote myself full time to my practice of oil painting. I am still developing a consistent style and have a lot of artistic exploration in my future!

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

I’ve been nursing my first sourdough starter along and it is named “Vincent van Dough”. I have not been able to paint recently but have been establishing some veggies using the Kratky Method of Passive Hydroponics. I think I’ll be able to pick up my brushes again when my baby lettuces are about two inches high.


Deborah Hansen

Deborah Hansen

Deborah Hansen

Can you tell us a little about your background?

While Anchorage has been home since 1982, I’ve also lived in California, Texas, Massachusetts, and Paris. My BA is from Wellesely College and MBA from Stanford University. I’m planning to apply to the BFA program at UAA this coming fall.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

The IGCA is an important part of our arts community and I felt that it was important to contribute by volunteering. I’ve been volunteering for a year since I retired.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

When it’s quiet, gallery sitting is a great time to actually look at the art show and think. I also like reading. When it’s busy, I like talking to the tourists about their trips.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I loved the experimental drawing show that Graham Dane curated and really enjoyed Don Mohr’s piece on doing a drawing. He asked questions that I often ask myself.

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

The funniest thing are the questions that the tourists ask; one is considered an expert by virtue of sitting behind a desk. I was once asked how to draw better.

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

I do volunteer for another non profit and support my husband’s extensive volunteer activities.

What do you love about Anchorage?

The best part about Anchorage is the community and sense of neighborhood. I also love the light and the landscape.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

I am a sculptor; my work is fairly representational in wood, ceramic and mixed media - found material, metal and fabric. I’ve been very interested in gold leaf lately.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

Hunkering down has been good for housecleaning and getting art done. I’ve enjoyed the quiet time; I’ve been thinking about how I spend my time.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

Anchorage has a vibrant arts community and we shouldn’t take all the parts for granted from UAA, APU, the high schools, grade schools and the galleries and artists. I appreciate all the support that I’ve received from artists here, everything from advice to equipment loans.

Mary Kancewick on Eagle River, not far from her home, in early April 2020.

Mary Kancewick on Eagle River, not far from her home, in early April 2020.

Mary Kancewick

Mary has been a member of, and a volunteer for, IGCA, for going on a decade now. A poet, she tapped artists she met through IGCA for cover art and for art to separate the sections of her recently published poetry collection Be-hooved (University of Alaska Press, 2019). She held her well-attended book release at the gallery, noting that many poems had been written at the volunteer desk. Mary writes as “Mar Ka,” and former Alaska Poet Laureate Tom Sexton has said of her work: “Mar Ka’s poems throw light even when the subject is dark.”

Of her own work Mary says:

“The art of poetry, like other arts, including the visual arts, is an exploration of individual experience towards approaching something universal. I think of the recent collection, Be-hooved, as a layered spiritual memoir, a testament to hope before change, persistence before confusion, and empathy before difference.“

Six years ago, in honor of her daughter’s sixteenth birthday, Mary and her daughter, sharing their interests in poetry and photography, put together a poetry-and-photography show in what was then the IGCA guest gallery. Mary hopes that someday she and her now adult daughter will repeat that memorable experience.

In these meantimes, she writes and skis.

Discover more about Mary and her work at www.markapoet.com.

Linda Lucky

Linda Lucky

Linda Lucky

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I’m a former New Yorker. I taught Art for 30 years in the public school system on Long Island (one year upstate NY). I retired in 1998. Spent four years traveling a lot. Then came the provocative email from my daughter in January 2002. Would I come to AK for just one year? I said I’ll get back to you. In 3 ½ minutes I emailed back Yes! I can do this. I had traveled up here 8 times visiting, so I knew what I was getting into. As soon as I landed, I hooked up with the artists’ community. This is where I knew my soul would be happiest.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

I’ve been interested in the IGCA since when I first visited my daughter in Anchorage in the late 90’s. The name alone intrigued me. INTERNATIONAL GALLERY OF CONTEMPORARY ART. I checked the Yellow Pages and found it on Arctic Blvd. I don’t remember what was on the walls but it definitely gave off a heavy gallery vibe. It was for me! I joined a month after I moved here, so I could be in their upcoming member show right away! This would be my gallery.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

The best thing about sitting is seeing/meeting people who love and support art! And to see the new show quietly without a crowd. What really makes sitting special is when the artist shows up who made the show! You get a special private tour then!

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

There have been so many great shows along the way. These stand out in my memory: Esther Hong’s color portrait drawings back in Dec 2007, Stephen Gray’s “Guilty Pleasures” from 2019 and a group show: “Mother”, curated by Esther Hong, 2015. I am honored to have had a piece in the Mother show. And of course I think my dog show in the Guest Room in 2007 was exceptional. :)

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

My favorite memory is sitting the gallery on Saturday the 7th of April, 2012, the day Anchorage broke the snowfall record in the city!! We just needed one more inch to break the record. I was rooting for it!! It snowed like crazy from early in the morning and never stopped, to my delight!! By 4pm, I knew it had fallen the needed inch! In my fantasy, the snow and I were in it together to break that record! lol

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

I’ve been a volunteer docent at the Anchorage Museum since January 2003. My favorite tours to lead are Art and the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center. Also I am the President of the 35+ Singles Dance Club, a small non-profit in Anchorage for many years. It’s a charming social club that features live music for the singles crowd with some open dances for married couples.

What do you love about Anchorage?

I love that Anchorage is so easy to navigate. It’s a manageable city. Things are close together. I love its neighborhoods of hipness, diversity, and it’s outdoor fun. And most of all I love its full and talented, ever growing arts community!

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Yes, I am an artist. I draw, I paint, I take pictures, I build papier mache dogs, I write and perform monologues. I would say my art is upbeat. My monologues are funny.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

I am enjoying hunkering down, love not having anywhere I have to be, but it’s so surreal! The only way I know what day it is, is by garbage pick up and the TV schedule! :) I’ve been lax with structure. Sometimes stay in pajamas all day!

My hunker down project has been to photograph my neighbor’s snow sculpture called Bunnyhenge in her front yard, in all the stages of melt. I post my fav pics on Instagram.

As for indoor activities, it’s about cleaning and digging through finding stuff and making art of course.

Self portrait by Nathan Perry.

Self portrait by Nathan Perry.

Nathan Perry

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I am originally from Great Falls, Montana. A third generation Montanan, one of three boys. My parents grew up in very small, rural communities in the state and I was always exposed to nature and the outdoors. My Father traveled and did hearing testing in rural communities around Montana for the young and Seniors and would take us on his travels at times. We got to hang out on Hutterite Colonies, Montana Native Tribal Agencies, Military Bases and all sorts of communities that I found fascinating. I think that experience really brought forth a desire to travel and explore. Both of my parents were very artistic. My father was a photographer, glass blower, wood carver and a band drummer (he passed away twelve years ago) and my mother is an interior decorator, painter and pastel artist who has been showing regularly in art galleries around Montana. They were very encouraging for me to pursue art and music so I was always drawing and playing make shift drums on pots and pans growing up.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

I have been volunteering for about three years. I have always felt a desire to volunteer. I volunteered at a Women's Shelter, an AIDS Hospice and Soup Kitchen before coming to IGCA. I felt compelled to help out in a community setting that brought Art to the forefront. I am also very inspired with the Artwork and Artists Statements that the Gallery has on display and find it a wonderful space for ideas and provoking thought.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

I often bring a Sketchbook or Drawing to work on while I am at the Gallery. I also watch YouTube videos of Art Tutorials or Art History Series. I also enjoy sauntering around and looking at all of the artwork that the gallery has on display. The thing I like most about gallery sitting is getting to talk with visitors (particularly visitors who are on vacation in Alaska) and hear what their views are about Alaskan Art. 

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I often find the Photography Exhibits to be my favorite though they are ALL GOOD! I think photography represents and really encapsulates the actual subject matter in ways that most people can understand and presents it in new and interesting ways that really enhances how we view the world around us.

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

AIGA for Graphic Designers and I help out sometimes with Sevigny Gallery and Dos Manos Gallery.

What do you love about Anchorage?

The population size of the City, the fact that it has constant activities going on during all seasons of the Year, the People, the character and uniqueness of the People and the CIty, the proximity to the Forest, Sea and Mountains, the trails, the wild life, the Art Scene, the Music Scene, the pubs, the restaurants. LOVE IT!!!

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Yes I am an Artist who works primarily with Scratchboard, Graphite and Acrylics. My Artwork ranges from Realistic Figurative Representation to Non Objective Abstraction and everything in between. I am inspired by the Outdoors, Portraiture, Spiritual Themes and Abstract Expressionism.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

I have been working from home as a Graphic Designer for The Alaska Club and taking on hobbies I have always wanted to do. I am learning Ukulele and Harmonica and trying to learn how to Juggle and shuffle cards. Also been watching a lot of AMAZING YouTube videos from AMAZING ARTISTS and MUSICIANS along with listening to plenty of Podcasts. I also love Classic Movies and have been watching quite a few of them. Also listening to Audiobooks, currently on Pride and Prejudice and A Course in Miracles. Been also doing a lot of Hiking and Winter Biking and learning how to to make Tortilla Shells from scratch (not as easy as it looks).

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

My motto is learn from the Masters and focus on your purpose for Creating.

Mikhail Siskoff giving an artist talk for his May 2019 exhibition “Dollar Cinema” at the IGCA.

Mikhail Siskoff giving an artist talk for his May 2019 exhibition “Dollar Cinema” at the IGCA.

Mikhail Siskoff

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Chugiak Alaska near Peter's Creek and I moved to downtown Anchorage at 21 when I got my first professional job.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? 

3 years, I think? 

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

When I'm gallery sitting, I like to bring along a small box of magazines, my cutting mat, and my x-acto knife. Working in the gallery space, surrounded by all the great work by my fellow members is inspiring but also I like the change of scenery from working at home. It can be very quiet at times but a welcome distraction when visitors come and I can answer questions about the exhibit or about what the heck I'm doing with these old magazines. 

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

The members exhibition is always the one I look forward to the most because I get to see a little bit of what everyone has been working on. I think the most memorable for me so far was Stephen Gray's exhibition the World's Forgotten Boy. 

What do you love about Anchorage?

There are a lot of things to love about Anchorage (I write about them in my blog) but particularly, I admire our big city ambition. I think IGCA plays an important role in fulfilling that ambition. 

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

I'm a visual artist, currently, I'm focused on collage. My work varies from surreal to dada but is consistently vintage with materials primarily from the '60s and '70s.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

I just finished a commission for a charity album for Independent Music News, they're raising money to buy meals for employees of the National Health Service in the UK.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

I just want to thank the staff and volunteers for hard work and innovation to exhibit the member's show during this crisis. You've all gone above and beyond and the results are truly impressive. I think I speak for the entire membership when I say, thank you.

Sharon Trager in her studio.

Sharon Trager in her studio.

Sharon Trager

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Detroit, Michigan. My love of art started in High School and gave me my first sense of direction and purpose. I attended Sienna Heights College and Eastern Michigan University earning a BFA with a major in Drawing.

After graduating and a bit of a disillusionment with the employment possibilities I went back to school earning teaching degree in Art Education. I started teaching in Michigan as my wandering spirit drew me westward. I taught in Iowa, Nebraska, and eventually Idaho where I met my husband who began a conversation involving moving to Alaska to teach in the “bush”. Shortly after we flew to Fairbanks to attend a teaching job fair and landed a “couple” teaching positions in the Village of Goodnew Bay, part of the Lower Kuskoskwim School District. The experience of living and working in Goodnews to this day is one of my most treasured experiences.

I began teaching Elementary Art for the Anchorage School District in the mid 90’s and at the same time working and exhibiting my own work. When I retired from teaching, the Gallery had been on my radar as someplace I wanted to contribute. I had always appreciated those who volunteered when I was working.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

Volunteering is usually a quiet time. I bring things to read, paperwork I need to do, sketch book and a snack. I usually take the opportunity to really spend time with the work on exhibit.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I think one of my favorite exhibitions in the last year was Don Decker’s drawings. There is something about having the whole gallery filled with one person’s work that appeals to me. I get a real sense of the process, journey and feel I really get to experience the work in a satisfying way. The other exhibit that stands out is Joe Carr’s automated wall-drawing robot. It just made me smile.

What do you love about Anchorage?

I really appreciate the community in Anchorage, the artistic community especially. Being part of the gallery helps me connect with so many other artists in town that I wouldn’t have met otherwise.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

In my own work I have worked in collage, painting, a wee bit of printmaking. The last several years I have made a push into more figurative work and painting. Before the quarantine I was participating in a weekly portrait painting group and the Life Drawing Sessions held at IGCA. This quarantine time is challenging but I do have a studio in my home so I am fortunate and I also have been participating is some zoom model time through an Austin, Texas studio which has been nice.

I’m looking forward to being able to connect with people again, whenever that may be.

Jen Wang

Jen Wang

Jen Wang

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I was born in China but spent most of my life in Southeast Michigan. When I was three, my dad brought my mom and I to Detroit with nothing but an education and scholarship, and we lived in a basement studio by the college. My parents have come a long way to finding peace and stability. It took me a long time to appreciate that, because I was a crazy kid. I moved around a lot and ended up here in Anchorage.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

When gallery sitting I usually end up looking at the pieces, over and over. In a lot of work you'll find great details and meanings you've missed the first time, after you step away and come back with a different mind. It's very meditative to have so much time in a gallery and not feel a compulsion to stay busy, and just be there. Lots of window watching too. I love the visitors who come in and express what the work means to them, show me their own work, or straight up share their life story. It's not easy to walk into a public space and open up to a stranger like that, and is something I admire. The artwork on the walls really facilitate that too.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

The group shows are always a really fun showcase of the different artists around town. One exhibition I enjoyed very much was Stephen Gray's "The World's Forgotten Boy" earlier this year. It was the kind of show that hits you the way a very upbeat but sad song hits and makes you feel nostalgic. I also enjoyed Lloyd Crow's unique frames and the huge scale of his work. There are a lot of powerful messages, talent, and hard work on display each month.

What do you love about Anchorage?

I love that the city is not flashy, it's somewhat busy, but not so much so that it feels your voice is swallowed up.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

Yes. I work in oil paint and stuffed animal collages. My favorite themes are nature, and folklore and mythology. There's a lot of wisdom in both that I try to gather up and recycle.

Heidi Weiland

Heidi Weiland

Heidi Weiland

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Valdez, Alaska, and promptly moved away upon graduating high school. Having never experienced the cultural joys of urban life before, I fell in love with big cities and made it my mission to live in as many as possible, including London, Montreal, Buenos Aires & São Paulo.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

One of the first things I did when I moved to back to Alaska 8 years was to become a volunteer at IGCA. I wanted to support the contemporary culture scene and spend more time around inspiring art.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

I work online so the gallery is a great place to get work done. It's my favorite office, by far :)

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I love the variety of work that comes through, as well as seeing how local artists interperet their experience of Alaska through their unique lens' of contemporary art.

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

A visitor once told me (in a thick German accent) that the IGCA is the only gallery in town where you can show a naked woman. Now, when people ask me what the IGCA is, that's what I tell them!

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere?

I work with the board of the Momentum Dance Collective and dj for ecstatic dances.

What do you love about Anchorage?

I love the combination of nature and urban life that Anchorage affords. There's so much to do and always new people to meet.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

I love all kinds of 2D mediums. If there are colors involved, then I've played with it. I'm obsessed with making portraits, which can either look hyperreal or like colorful abstracts. I'm also a DJ and love rich soundscapes.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

Serving my life coaching clients and the Anchorage community through my work. I hosted a 2 day online AK Holistic Wellness Gathering recently, which was my main COVID project. I've since taken some time off to clean the house and get outside!

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself with the IGCA community?

The IGCA is an amazing venue and incredibly resilient. I love the work you do.

Sarah Woolley on 4/11/20 at Portage Pass looking down at Whittier.

Sarah Woolley on 4/11/20 at Portage Pass looking down at Whittier.

Sarah Woolley

Can you tell us a little about your background?

Grew up in Louisiana. Came to AK in ‘81.

How long have you been volunteering for the IGCA? Why did you choose to become an IGCA volunteer?

I started in 2009 when Julie was still with IGCA. I love the gallery & what it offers to Alaska.

Gallery sitting can often be very quiet and solitary. What do you like about gallery sitting?

I love being in a space so energized with artists.

Do you have a favorite IGCA exhibition?

I loved Fran Reed’s retrospective and the members shows.

Do you have a funny or interesting story to share that involves the gallery (gallery sitting or otherwise)?

Was asked if could emergency gallery sit on a day I was watching a 4 year old girl. I brought her in & since it was nap time, she curled up on that glass desk top with no pillow, blanket or teddy bear & slept like a baby. It was amazing.

Are you involved in any other arts organizations or non-profits in Anchorage or elsewhere? What do you love about Anchorage?

I volunteer for Alaska State Parks, Alaska Fish & Game, Alaska National Parks, museum, & lots of other orginizations here & there. I love the beauty & wild areas.

Are you an artist? If so, what media do you work in and what is your artwork like?

I have a pottery studio, so I work in clay. My work is random, but love making creatures.

What have you been doing hunkering-down at home?

Ski, bike, hike, studio, cook (love gourmet food!) & kittens & cocktails. Plus I’m working overtime with State of AK - essential.

Members Exhibition 2020 Artist Spotlights (Part 3/3)

This is the last of three blog posts that highlight each artist member that submitted work to our 2020 Members Exhibition. This, along with the online store and the window displays, represent our efforts to share with you, our arts community, the vision and talents of our creative membership.

This year, we challenged our members to look back on 2019 and define their work in a submission to this exhibition. Many of the artists took the time to tell us a little bit about themselves and where their creative focus has been in the past year, and we have shared those thoughts with you below.

You can look through the images by clicking on the thumbnails below the main image. If you are interested in purchasing any of the artworks for sale you can do that through our online store which is accessible via the “shop” button on the menu bar above, as well as by clicking on the image.

 

Don Mohr

Don is one of the founding members of the IGCA, and continues to volunteer on the board.

Brandon Moore

Brandon has been a member of the IGCA for about a year now, and volunteers as a gallery sitter as well.  When asked where his artistic focus has been this last year, he says,

“I’ve always enjoyed working with ink and now, over the last year, I’ve been experimenting more with stippling and working with other kinds of inks. It’s become a form of meditation and exploration for me.”

Discover more about Brandon and his work on instagram - @birberous, or on his website,  www.birberous.com.

Richard Murphy

Richard has been a member of the IGCA from the beginning, and shares with us some of this last years inspiration…

“This piece came from an enforced stay in Fukuoka, Japan on the southern island of Kyushu in February of 2019. The lotus ponds in winter are largely ignored, in fact this pond was clear cut of old lotus plants while I was there. These plants, and their soon demise, spoke to me of the Japanese concept of wabi sabi, of the transitory and imperfect beauty of nature.”

Find more information on Richard and his work by following him on Instagram - @instaak

Monica O’Keefe

A member for 7 years, Monica shares a bit about her work and her inspiration…

“I’ve always felt the need to make things and create art, and I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors, to the beauty and quiet of natural places. Living in Alaska it’s easy to get outside and notice the things that I want to interpret in paintings. I’m intrigued by variations in scale from tiny to vast. I continue to experiment with acrylic mediums, as well as carving rubber stamps and making stencils for use with acrylic paint, to create designs based on my concept of what looks interesting.”

Discover more about Monica and her work at monicaokeefe.com

Karen Olanna

Discover more about Karen and her work by following her on Instagram - @karen.olanna.art

Carlos Pereira

Carlos has been a member of the IGCA for 2 years.  We asked him to tell us a little about himself and his practice…

”My art is a soliloquy of tales from personal experiences. The styles I use include abstract, landscape, and impressionism work. At the age of 6, I started learning landscape techniques with my mother, an art professor in Texas. In the last two years I have begun experimenting with abstractions, and find that I can create art that communicates my personal experiences to the viewer. Through this channel of thought, I wish to capture an audience that is intrigued by my story.”

Discover more about Carlos and his work at carlospereiraart.com or on instagram - @carlospereiraart

Nathan Perry

Nathan has been a participating artist member for 10 years, as well as a consistent volunteer. This last year he as been focusing on “moving more towards color with Acrylics and exploring Combinations of Realistic Figurative with Abstract elements.”

Discover more about Nathan and his work by visiting his Facebook page, Nathan Perry, or by following him on Instagram - @nhperry01

Miranda Petruska

Miranda has been a member for a little over a year now and has spent much of this last year expanding her audience…

“The past few months I created a website for my work which features a shop, a blog, a gallery, and an “about me” section as well as acknowledgements. I’m still learning the business side of selling art. I’ve participated in a couple of pop-up shops to sell my earrings. I paint, but only when I have time. My full-time job is raising 2 young children, taking college classes, and also working for a tribal health organization. Never a dull moment in my life, which I am grateful for.”

Visit her website, www.dichinanek.com, to discover more about Miranda and her work.

David Pettibone

David has been a member for multiple years and when asked where his creative focus has been this year, he told us “I’ve been working on large-scale narrative work but also painting small, plein air studies. These studies, I find, are an important breath of fresh air while I am deep in my studio work.”  

That’s a coincidence - David and his work, WE FIND, are an important breath of fresh air.

Discover more about David and his practice on instagram - @pettibonedavid, or on his website, davidpettipone.com

Elissa Pettibone

Elissa has been a member for the last several years. You all will remember her as the former IGCA gallery manager, who couldn’t resist the pull of Homer. Over this last year, she’s been focusing her natural dye practice onto indigo. “After 10 years of working with natural dyes, I've dug even deeper into indigo. I am experimenting painting with indigo, a dye that goes through a redox reaction to color fiber. It's hard to paint fabric with a medium that oxidizes before the brush touches the fabric- leading to many experiments. Aside from experiments, I gained inspiration from a Japan trip last fall, learning traditional growing/processing/dyeing/after treatment techniques with indigo. An informative year for me and indigo!” 

You can find more information on Elissa and her work at blueredyellow.org or on instagram - @blueredyellow_dyers.

Tami Phelps

Discover more of Tami’s work and process on her website, tamiphelps.com

MaryBeth Printz

MaryBeth is a new member this year, and she took the time to tell us a little about where her artistic focus has been over the last year…

“My practice has developed from classical observational painting into creating imagery that is conceptual and poetic. I am a visual raconteur who explores a variety of subjects, both personal and societal, that I weave together to express my experiences, opinions, and feelings in an imaginative realistic style. My background in classical realism is meshed with elements of graphic design learned throughout my career and my imagination to produce visual images imbued with a sense of magic.”

Discover more about MaryBeth and her work on Instagram, @mbprintzart.

J. Reto

Jay has been a member for 2 years and is currently working on 2 different series…

“These pieces represent two series I'm working on. 1) Ice Scraper Landscape Series in which principle painting is done using the tooth side of an ice scraper. 2) Reverse Portrait Series implementing German reverse glass painting techniques with mixed media on plexi.”

Faith Revell

Faith has been a member of the IGCA for 3 years. She shared a little about where her focus has been this last year…

“Human geography, natural phenomena and the essence of movement inform my painting. An artist residency in Denali National Park and a float in the Kenai Fjords with scientists and educators inspired new work and a new perspective on the natural world. I puzzle over how to navigate the landscape with imagination, sometimes grace, and a measure of safety. And grow daily, more aware of the din that signals a global community in peril. My work, abstract and experimental, weds heavy with light.”

Amy Robinson

Not only has Amy  been a member for about 2 years, she volunteers as a gallery sitter and serves on the board as well!  When asked where her creative focus has been over the last year she says…

”I have been creating abstract pieces on board and canvas using primarily acrylic paint, pastels, and collage.  I am developing intentionality around shapes and techniques I use, and also trying to understand the shapes I repeatedly make and to embrace them.”

Find out more about Amy and her practice by following her on instagram - @amy_robinson_art

Elise Rose

Amanda Saxton

Amanda has been a member of the gallery for about 10 years.  We asked her to share a bit about herself and where her creative focus has been this year…

”This year I have concentrated on pen & ink illustrations about suffragettes. This exhibit print is in sepia on parchment to exemplify its historical context. I have had past illustrations for Environment and Natural Resources Institute, Taste of Home: Mediterranean Cooking in Alaska, and graphics for the U.S. Arctic Research Commission. I have a MFA in Art from University of Hartford and a MA from Syracuse University. I feel lucky to be in a city close to the mountains with vibrant art and music centers.”

Mikhail Siskoff

Discover more about Mikhail and his work on Instagram - @keysgoclick

Christine Smith

Christine doesn’t know exactly how long she’s been a member but its “a long time!” When asked about where her creative focus has been over the last year she says

“My work can be abstract but is generally grounded in realism. Everything from experimental cold wax paintings like these to animal portraits in oil to intricate mosaic work. Lots of commissioned work is keeping me busy this year!”  We are happy to hear it Christine!

Find more information about Christine and her work at www.christinebradnersmith.com

Becky Stephan

Jen Wang

Jen has been a volunteering as a gallery sitter since last summer and shares with us a little about her process and focus this last year…

“I'm an oil painter. I start a lot of pieces and never finish them, and forget to cap my paints in the meantime. I've gotten better about it only recently, with better habits and more time spent in the painting chair. There's a lot of trust involved in making strong decisions and then allowing yourself to call a work "done." This past year was one full of blocky coloring and cartoon birch trees.”

Discover more about Jen and her work in Instagram - @amanita_house

Lee Waters

Lee has been a member for over 5 years, and she shared a bit about herself…

“In addition to being a special education teacher, I teach American Sign Language in the community. My art work is primarily based in Encaustic, mosaic sculptural pieces and fused glass jewelry. This year, in addition to spending time with my family, I dance to live music 2-3 times a month and host dinner/game night parties. Currently I am a teacher mentor in training and also a post-grad fellow at UAA.”

Visit her website, leewaters.org, to discover more about Lee and her work.

Deondra Welch

Deondra is a new member who has been practicing stained glass for about 25 years.  This last year she been putting her shop back together after moving back to Alaska nearly 4 years ago. 

“The piece that I am submitting is the first one that I've done in 4 years and now belongs to my Aunt.  Most of my work is made as gifts but I do plan on displaying more of it and possibly selling some in the future.  I don't have a website or Insagram yet but that is something else that I will be working on in the coming months.”  Everyone look out for her on instagram in the near future and give her some love.

Sheila Wyne

Sheila, a member of many years, took the time to share with us some of her inspiration and process…

“My work reflects a personal view that an artist’s perspective is applicable in many venues. The media I use is as wide-ranging as the scale, scope and emotional content of each project. No material is off limits. Everything is available for the creative act. I gather the flotsam and jetsam from Northern communities – objects, words, stories, attitudes, ideas and events. I dismantle and deconstruct. Then reconfigure these remnants to find new meaning with fresh insight.”

Visit her website to find more information about Sheila and her work - www.sheilawyne.com

Members Exhibition 2020 Artist Spotlights (Part 2/3)

This is the second of three blog posts that highlight each artist member that submitted work to our 2020 Members Exhibition. This, along with the online store and the window displays, represent our efforts to share with you, our arts community, the vision and talents of our creative membership.

This year, we challenged our members to look back on 2019 and define their work in a submission to this exhibition. Many of the artists took the time to tell us a little bit about themselves and where their creative focus has been in the past year, and we have shared those thoughts with you below.

You can look through the images by clicking on the thumbnails below the main image. If you are interested in purchasing any of the artworks for sale you can do that through our online store which is accessible via the “shop” button on the menu bar above, as well as by clicking on the image.

 

Jonathan S. Green

Jonathan is a printmaker that has been a member of the IGCA for the last three years. He took the time to tell us a little about his practice…

“My research and practice is concerned with climate crisis in the era of the Anthropocene. As of late, it has been focused on the human interaction with geology - specifically the relationships between them. Meaning, a relationship in which rock and human a/effect each other. This implies a boundary between animate life and inanimate life that is more permeable than we currently imagine.“

Find more information about Jonathan and his work on instagram - @jonathansgreen

Somer Hahm

A new member, Somer is a practicing artist based in Fairbanks.

“My most recent body of work, titled "The Painted Quilt" was exhibited January 2020 at FAA's Bear Gallery. A large series of acrylic on canvas, hard edge abstractions, these paintings are directly inspired by the timeless beauty of quilt block designs. Out of this recent body of studio work grew my new artistic endeavor called the Far North Quilt Trail Project (FNQTP), a comprehensive community wide public art project that will establish a distinctly unique barn quilt trail in Fairbanks, Alaska.”

Discover more about Somer, her practice, and this ambitious project online at somerhahm.com and www.thefarnorthquilttrailproject, as well as on Instagram - @somer.hahm and @thefarnorthquilttrailproject

Annekathrin Hansen

Annekathrin has been an IGCA member since 2013. When asked to share a little bit about herself and her practice, she says…

“Nature leads me to the creation of photos, paintings, mosaics, and mixed media pieces. The design of the mixed media picture "Musher - Heading North" is based on photographs of Iditarod mushers. The mixed media piece "Eisbear - 11:03am, 13 February 2019 AKST" (Polar Bear) was created in connection to the Aiviq and Nanuq Sea Bear community exhinition at the Anchorage museum last year. The picture was generated out of a collage of several photos.”

Discover more about Annekathrin and her work at…
artwork-by-anne.com
fineartamerica.com

David Hansen

David is a new member and this last year he has focused his artistic practice on “looking at the northern landscape for ideas about function and inevitability.”

Deborah Hansen

Deborah is not only a long time member, she is also a practicing artist and much appreciated volunteer.

Lesley Harrison

Lesley has been a member for about 12 years. When asked to tell us a bit about her practice, she shares…

“I like to experiment and work on a theme for some time. This includes researching a topic to help me get beyond the obvious. I enjoy combining images which are not typically seen together, to add interest and tension or a surprise which enlivens the resulting image.”

Find more information about Lesley and her work on her website, www.harrisonharrison.com.

Judith Hoersting

Judith has been a member and supporter of the gallery since the very beginning. She is a regular participant in group shows as well as a great volunteer. This last year she’s been busy prepping for 2020…

“Studio work is focused on my solo October 2020 exhibition at Alaska Pacific U. Global traveling to several will provide visual excitement & challenge! Stay tuned!”

Esther Hong

Rhonda Horton

Rhonda has been a member for the last 8 years. This last year she has focused on travel and learning some new processes…

“I am an artist-printmaker who works with various materials for construction of matrixes for printing. This past year, through an artist residency with Master Printmaker Maureen Booth in Pinos Genil, Spain, I had the opportunity to learn solar plate intaglio process and book art. My work focuses on discovering shorebirds of Palmer Hay Flats through the act of drawing, solar plate, monoprinting, and book art. The shorebirds I have chosen are vulnerable and currently on Audubon AlaskaWatch List.”

Discover more about Rhonda on her website, rhondahortonart.com and on Facebook - RhondaHortonArt

Margret Hugi-Lewis

Jody Jenkins

Jody is a long term IGCA member and shares a bit about what her practice and influences…

“I am ever in awe of where I live in this northern place and I am passionate about drawing. My art is created primarily for myself, documenting what I experience and think about. Though, I do like my art to tell a story of some sort, and I do at times want to share my work. I would like others to look carefully and try to figure out if there is any meaning to any of this.”

Dakota Jewell

Dakota is a new member at the IGCA and has been focusing on “impressionistic landscapes and representational abstract paintings” this year.

Melissa Kapelari

Melissa is a new member of 6 months, she is not only a practicing artist but a consistent volunteer as well. She shares with us what has been her focus over the last year…

“I have an experimental love for oil painting. Recently I've been dabbling in acrylic and come to love it's wild range of colors that I can't always get with oil. I’m mostly interested in bright colors, fantasy landscapes, and geometric shapes. This brings me to my current obsession with power lines. The wires form so many shapes and chaos from the cables which fascinates me.”

Discover more about Melissa and her practice on her website, melissakapelari.wixsite.com, or follow her on Instagram - @merlissak_art.

Amy Komar

Amy is a new member to the IGCA, and we asked her to share a little about herself… 

“This past summer, my family & I moved from Fairbanks, my home of twenty years, to Homer. Since graduating from UT Austin with a BA in Studio Art in 2001, I have maintained a regular painting practice. I am no stranger to creating make shift spaces to sustain my practice, having a strong belief that consistently showing up for your work is the way to find your voice and direction as an artist. I’m currently working on a painting series exploring the intersection of self and motherhood.”

Discover more about Amy and her work by visiting her website - amykomar.com, or on instagram - @amykomar

Susan Lagrande

Susan has been a member of the IGCA for over 5 years. The last year saw a shift of focus and a new body of work to show...

“The two submissions are part of a new series which explores the notion that all things are connected by the space between. In the past year I have focused more on my painting than my wire sculpture works. This effort culminated in a showing this fall of my paintings at South Restaurant.”

Go to Susan’s website, SusanLaGrandearts.com, to discover more about her and her work.

Carol Lambert

Carol has not only been a member of the IGCA for the last 17 years, she volunteers her time to help run the life drawing sessions that we host in the back work area of the gallery. When asked what her creative focus has been over the last year and she shares,

“I have, over the last year and a half, changed my art practice from oil painting to printmaking, mainly etching on copper plates. Whereas my oil paintings were representational, my etchings are inspired by illustration, comics, and political cartoon traditions. My prints address environmental realities and areas of social conflict. I always depict human and/or animal figures, often in surreal landscapes. I use colors, characters, and unusual imagery to both amuse and provoke the viewer. “

Discover more about Carol and her work on instagram - @carollambertarts, and on her website, carollambertarts.com

Jonathan Lang

Jonathan has been a member of the IGCA for about 7 years, and we always appreciate his unique contributions to our Member’s Exhibitions. He took the time to share with us a bit about his focus over the last year…

“ In the last year I have focused more on video embedded in sculptural pieces of found and re-purposed objects. Projecting still images and video has remained a staple of my studio time with shop time devoted to making and assembling the sculptures as well as working out the (literal) kinks in the wiring and electronics.”

Discover more about Jonathan and his work on Facebook - Pay No Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain Films, or on Instagram - @AKFilmmaker

William Lee

William Lee, an IGCA member for the last 2 years, is an artist that creates computational artworks based on mathematical fractals. ”My work explores the creative abilities inherent to mathematics. It is my aim to provoke a renewed interest and passion in the audience for the wonder and joy that math and science bring.”

Find out more about William and his work on his website -  www.ArtistryInEquations.com, or on his Facebook page -  Artistry in Equations.

John Letourneau

Kristin Link

Kristin, a member of 2 years, does lovely work that blend science and art delightfully…

”I work with mixed media, collage, drawing, and cyanotype. My recent work explores watersheds and related ecosystems in Alaska. It looks at glaciated landscapes and rivers, coastlines, and ocean-scapes. I am interested in the multiple ways people come to understand the changing landscape through science, beauty, mystery, and magic. This work was completed during a recent artist residency at the Jenni House in Whitehorse, YT and as part of a collaboration with poet and writer Jeremy Pataky.”

Discover more about Kristin on her website, KristinLink.com, or follow her in instagram - @linkkristin

Petra Lisiecki

Petra has been a member of the IGCA for at least 10 years. She shares a little about her practice and inspirations…

“I am an Anchorage based photographer but have also lived and worked in London. My focus has been on portraiture and photographing in the theatre world, different disciplines, much behind the scenes. I love movement in images and unusual light, either very dark or very bright. My work is showing in the Cyrano’s Patrons Lounge Gallery at present, until March 11th. The title of my show is “All’s well that ends well.”

Discover more about Petra on her website, petralisiecki.com.

Linda Lucky

Lucky has been a member of the IGCA for at least 17 years, commonly participates in our group shows, regularly volunteers as a gallery sitter, and is a passionate supporter of the local arts community at large. Follow her on Instagram to see more of her work, as well as the work of many local artists - @aklindalucky

Linda Infante Lyons

Find more information on Linda and her work on her website, lindainfantelyons.com

Shiela Mahaney

Shiela, who has been a member for 3 years, has been incredibly busy over this last year! She has been in 12 juried exhibitions Internationally, including a museum exhibition in Massachusetts, magazine publication in Colorado, Fujifilm photo exhibit in Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central in New York City. Her artistic artwork received a Best of Show award and she also received another Honorable Mention award in the International Photo Awards. Last fall, she was invited and attended the Photo Gala Awards in Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Discover more about Shiela and her work on Instagram - @axleblu or by visiting her website, shielamahaney.com.

Enzina Marrari

Find more information about Enzina and her work on Instagram - @enzinamarrariart

Scott McDonald

Scott has been a participating artist and member of the IGCA for 18 years. He shares a little about his adventures over the last year…

“In 2018, my family and I took a year-long leave of absence from our Alaskan lives to live in Cuenca, Ecuador. There we immersed ourselves into Ecuadorian culture and I rented a small studio space. Although our home, and my studio, is in Anchorage, we also spend much of our summers in Homer, Alaska. Over the past 18 months I worked in these three locations, in three different studios, which has led to three distinct bodies of work.”

Find more about Scott and his work checking out his website, www.scottmcdonaldart.com or by following him on Instagram - @scottmcdonaldpaintingstudio

Amy Meissner

Amy has been a member of the IGCA for about 5 years and we asked her to share a bit about herself and the direction her creative focus has taken this last year…

”I have a craft-based practice that utilizes materials made by women who came before me, most of whom are unknown. This work considers their literal, physical, and emotional labor within the context of radically caring for their memory and marginalized skills. This last year I started an MA in Critical Craft Studies outside of Alaska, and locally have been engaged in the participatory practice of community mending through the Anchorage Museum's SEED Lab.”

Discover more about Amy and her work on her website - www.amymeissner.com, and on instagram - @amymeissnerartist

Diane Melms

Diane has been a member for the last 10 years. What has she been up to this last year? 

“I have been busy in the studio… creating a new body of work for two upcoming solo shows. This new work is not yet ready for exhibit, but I am happy to be showing two other recent pieces. Focus and Gather are machine pieced compositions which I created using a line of commercial stripe fabrics. I particularly enjoy working with stripe fabric because of its potential for creating interesting patterns in a composition.” 

We congratulate her on her solo exhibits and can’t wait to see the new work!

Discover more about Diane and her work on instagram - @dianememsartist or on her website, dianemelms.com.

Members Exhibition 2020 Artist Spotlights (Part 1/3)

This is the first of three blog posts that highlight each artist member that submitted work to our 2020 Members Exhibition. This, along with the online store and the window display, represent our efforts to share with you, our arts community, the vision and talents of our creative membership.

This year, we challenged our members to look back on 2019 and define their work in a submission to this exhibition. Many of the artists took the time to tell us a little bit about themselves and where their creative focus has been in the past year, and we have shared those thoughts with you below.

You can look through the images by clicking on the thumbnails below the main image. If you are interested in purchasing any of the artworks for sale you can do that through our online store which is accessible via the “shop” button on the menu bar above, as well as by clicking on the image.

Behind the Eight Ball Enterprises (J.E. Ilgen & C. E. Licka)

This project and artwork is produced by the non-profit consortium, Behind the Eight Ball Enterprises, which has been a member of the IGCA for the last 20 years.

T.V. Baranov

Tristan is a new member this year and we are excited to have another metalsmith with us. We asked him to tell us a little about what he’s been focused on this year…

“Work space and tooling changes brought about an exciting change to work in a larger scale than before, which has been a long term goal. This year I have been focusing on finish and patina, my goal is to be able to use low impact and local materials to complement the recycled metals I prefer to use.”

Find out more about Tristan and his work by following him on Instagram - @tristanbaranov

Daniel Becker

Daniel is a new member of the IGCA and has been focusing on film, photography and painting this last year.

Elizabeth Belanger

Elizabeth has been a member of the gallery for about a year. This last year she’s been working on exploration of style.

“I’ve been transforming my style from more realistic based portraiture into increasingly imagination based portraiture and scenes from memory.”

Discover more about Elizabeth and her work on Facebook - Elizabeth Belanger and on Instagram - @b_richie_b

Mandy Bernard

Mandy has been an IGCA member for the last two years.

Find more information about Mandy and her work on Instagram - @mandybernardstudio or on her website, mandybernard.com

Kayo Bogdan

Kayo has been a member for about a year and creates delightful fiber works based on nature. She is eager to “experiment with other fiber art skills” this year and we are looking forward to seeing those explorations. You can find her crocheted creations at various venues around town especially during the festival season in the summer.

Discover more about Kayo and her work on Instagram - @roomswithshrooms or on her website - roomswithshrooms.com

Albert Bowling 

Jackie Bowling

Jackie has been a member of the IGCA for 2 years now, and her colorful pieces brought smiles to everyone during install and First Friday.

”I took painting classes Spring and Fall last year. These two pieces are light-hearted and fun. My ideas usually come from my dreams or from humorous events I see around me each day. “

Linda Brady Farr

Linda has been a member for several years now and we asked her to share a bit about where her artistic focus has been over the last year…

“In 2015, after working in and exhibiting fiber art in Alaska and the lower 48 for over forty years, I have turned my focus back to painting and printmaking. The 2016 presidential election and the resulting turmoil in our country motivated me to paint a series of tornadoes. By 2019 the political and actual climate had become so worrisome that I have continued to fill large canvases with turbulent skies and tornadoes.”

Abby Brown

Abby became a member of the gallery this year and we are happy to have her on board!

“I've been experimenting by adding depth to my work, finding ways to create unique textures.  This year, I focused on the beauty and complexity of mental health.  My works are reflections of sunsets, which embody the self-reflection process and aren't symmetrical to represent cognitive distortions like over-generalization.  Going forward, I want to continue exploring psychology, particularly suicidal ideations. I hope we can a open dialogue and minimize the stigmas associated with seeking help.”

Find out more about Abby and her work on her website at www.themistyvalleystudio.com, or on instagram - @themistyvalleystudio

Meghan LH Bundtzen

Find more about Meghan and her work at meghanlhbundtzen.wordpress.com

Randall Carlson

Randall is along time supporter of the IGCA, a member since 2002.

"For beauty is nothing but the beginning of terror which we are barely able to endure and are awed because it serenely disdains to annihilate us." ~ Rainer Maria Rilke

Discover more about Randall and his work on Facebook - Laniakea Dreamscapes.

Sally Carr

Sally has been a member of the IGCA for over a year now. This last year has seen lots of changes in her artistic focus with the start of her first year at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design where she has been exposed to many new mediums.

Find more about Sally and her work on instagram - @sallycarr907

Joe Carr

Joe has been a member of the IGCA for the last 5 years. In addition to being a supporting member, he regularly volunteers his time on facility repairs and maintenance as well as serving on the board.

Find more about Joe and his work on instagram - @isaboja, and on his website, antiquatedpress.com

Joyce Coolidge

Joyce has been a member for about 10 years now and is a delight to have in the gallery. When asked what her artistic focus has been lately she shares…

“I've been working mostly in encaustic medium for several years,and my work has been focusing on line and repetition. There are times that I've had work in a group show that I struggle with a theme and remaining consistent to my aesthetic. This is a frustrating venture but is an opportunity to stretch myself. I'm currently working a artwork for a solo show in April 2020 at the Georgia Blue gallery.”

Find more information about Joyce and her work at joycecoolidge.com

Carla Cope

Carla is a new member to the IGCA and we asked her to tell us a little bit about herself and what her creative focus has been over the last year.

”I’m an artist and a mother. At times these two identities struggle to co-exist, but being a mom has also focused and intensified my drive to make art. In 2019, I embarked on a series of creative experiments, playing with new materials, ideas and forms. My new work is about relationships: to the self and to each other. I paint to find balance and to express the contradictions within these relationships. I'm inspired by the cycles of the natural world, and the human place within it.”

Discover more about Carla on instagram - @carlacope, or on her website, carlakcope.com.

John Coyne

John is a multimedia artist that has been a member of the gallery for the last two years. We asked him to share a little bit about himself and what he’s been up to artistically over the last year.

“I am a painter and a sculptor, and although these cross disciplinary practices influence each other, I've mostly kept them separated. But this summer I combined the two forms, and under Alaskas municipal Percent For Art Program I completed a sculptural installation on the corner of Spenard and Benson. The title of the piece is "Spen", and it combines mixed media, stainless steel and cast bronze, and I've incorporated hand painted murals into "Spen". “

Find more information about John and his work on his website, johncoyneartist.com

Katie Ione Craney

Katie has been a member of the IGCA for the last two years. When asked to explain where her creative focus has been over the last year, she shares…

“Discarded and found materials continue to guide my process. I've been working with imagery and qiviut gathered from the Norton Sound area outside of Nome, alongside single-use, human-made ephemera, to explore historical and contemporary ways we buy and sell Alaska.”

Discover more about Katie and her work on her website, katiecraney.com, and on instagram - @decipheringchange

Darin Crow

Darin just recently became a member of the IGCA and has spent the last year sculpting in both stone and wood “attempting to retain the organic form the material.”

Lloyd Crow

Not only is Lloyd a long time member, he regularly volunteers his time to gallery sit and is always happy to have a conversation about the art showing in the gallery and the arts community in general.

Graham Dane

Find more about Graham on Facebook - Graham Dane, and on his website - grahamdane.com

Monica Devine

Monica has been a member of the IGCA for 6 years. We asked her to share a little bit about herself and her practice…

“I am a writer and visual artist who exercises an eclectic approach to the creation of ideas. I draw from my participation in sculpture and painting to explore the existential quandary of humans, animals and objects through the medium of ceramics, and often use my poetry as a springboard for inspiration. “

Find more information about Monica and her work on her website, monica devine.com and on Instagram - @monicadevine.art

Tea Di Ramos

Tea has been an IGCA member for the last 3 years and you can find more about her and her work on Instagram - @teart_design

Adria Dobson

Adria has been a member of the IGCA for the last 2 years. When asked where her artistic focus has been this last year she says…

“My practice this year has included acrylic painting in the Baroque Revival and creating more color of vibrancy. Practicing lots of painting with acrylic ink and some water color has been the recent mediums I have worked with.”

Zelma Denise Gallup

Zelma, a member of many years, works in a variety of mediums…


”My practice consists of many media; fiber, printmaking, drawing, painting and mixed media. I explore methods and concepts in no particular rhythm but my own.”

Find more about Zelma on Instagram - @zdenisegallup

Dianne Gillis-Robinson

Dianne has been a member for about a year now, and she is also a dedicated volunteer, who is always happy to chat about art. This last year she has “taken a deep dive in Alaskan landscapes beginning with small studies and progressing to larger works.”

Discover more about Diane and her work on instagram - @dianne.makes.art or on her website, studio3519.com.

KN Goodrich

A member since at least 1999, Kay tells us a bit about her artistic focus over the last year…

“I've spent most of the last year focused on recovering from knee surgery. The pieces I've submitted were completed in 2018 between spine and knee surgeries. My goals are to create somewhat mysterious compositions that symbolise or resonate with a narrative which remains impenetrable, allowing the viewer to find a parallel in their own life experiences. My practice involves combining traditional painting mediums with modern digital technologies.”

Find more information about KN on her website, studiogoodrich.com

Ann Gray

Ann has been a supporting participant of the IGCA community since it first started in the 80s.  She is a consistent member, practicing artist, and a generous volunteer as well!

“I have always been an 'observer ' and easily distracted by things that I see around me. My attention is often drawn to the graphic arrangement of things and the juxtaposition of people or objects in different situations that I see. I enjoy having a camera or my cell phone at hand to help me capture a moment or something that I find visually interesting. I often use my photographs as a source of inspiration for printmaking images.”

Gallery Closure and 2020 Members Exhibition

GALLERY CLOSURE as of March 13th

Tufted Puffin | Acrylic | Nathan Perry

Tufted Puffin | Acrylic | Nathan Perry

In response to the current global pandemic, the IGCA board has voted to close the gallery to the public. This closure is intended to protect our volunteers, our members and our greater community. 

We do not know how long this closure will extend, but as of today we are planning on being closed through April. We are working directly with the affected artists to reschedule. Please keep an eye on our upcoming exhibitions page for more information. 

Moving forward, we will be assessing the situation regularly and may need to adjust programming beyond April. We will, of course, communicate in advance any updates on this closure to our members & subscribers via email and our social media platforms. 

MEMBERS EXHIBITION

We have been looking forward to March since the last members exhibition, and although the IGCA itself is closed, we have creative plans to continue the 2020 Membership Exhibition. It is such an important event for the gallery and it's supporters, and we are committed to sharing the work and talents of our creative community.

Our current plan for the Members Exhibition:

  • Going Digital : we will pursue even more efforts in promoting individual artists & works on our social media, through posts & stories. Please look out for these and engage with us as we attempt to bring the exhibition out of the gallery. 

  • Online Gallery : we are going to use this opportunity to build an online gallery of the Members Exhibition work. This will allow people to view the work, read more about the artists and make online purchases. 

  • Window Installations : We are going to build a temporary, lit, display wall in our large front windows. This will allow us to cycle work from the members exhibition on a weekly basis and display it to our community. Please drive or walk by on occasion to check it out.  

  • Extended through April : Since we have cancelled April's exhibition - we are extending the members exhibition (window & virtual) into April. 

If you are a participating member in the exhibition, and you need your work before the end of April, please communicate with us directly and we, of course, can coordinate for pick up. Otherwise plan on pick up dates for the members show exhibition to be in early May. 

Our annual Members Party is also indefinitely postponed. We love our members celebration and are CERTAIN to host it eventually. As mentioned above, we will update plans as we get more information and it becomes safer to open the gallery and consider social congregation. 

The Opening was very well attended - nearly 300 people through the door! We are thankful that we had the chance to see so many supporters in person and celebrate our amazing community.

The Opening was very well attended - nearly 300 people through the door! We are thankful that we had the chance to see so many supporters in person and celebrate our amazing community.

IN CONCLUSION

We want to encourage our community to please stay safe, adopt proper protection, hygiene, and social distancing efforts to prevent the spread of this dangerous virus in our community. The best way to collectively assist in this environment is to be diligent as individuals. This is true if we are part of the vulnerable population or not. We are all in this together. 

The IGCA may be closed, but we are going to work harder than ever to support, promote, uplift, and pursue our mission in this difficult time. 

Interview with February Artist Alice Bailey

Alice Bailey at IGCA

Gallery Manager Karinna Gomez talked by phone with February artist Alice Bailey about her exhibition Quinhagak, Bethel, Nikolai, currently on view in the Center and North Galleries.

To see Alice’s copperplate photogravures and to learn more about the artist visit her website: http://www.alice-bailey.com/

Quinhagak, Bethel, Nikolai and the South Gallery exhibition by A Behind the Eight Ball Enterprises Project (J. E. Ilgen & C. E. Licka) are on view through Saturday, February 29, 2020.

Photo: Alice Bailey at IGCA on First Friday