Sam Kirk

Sam Kirk, a U.S. based multidisciplinary artist with studios in Chicago and Brooklyn, explores culture, identity and urban politics through her art. Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, in a mixed race family, she has always been fascinated with community and culture. Taking experiences from her own upbringing and merging them with insights obtained during travel, her work is known for its vibrant color palette, whimsical characters and, profound stories laced with optimism.

Kirk’s creative process involves frequent voyages so she may engage with a variety of communities in different cities. A self-taught artist, her artistic influences are drawn mostly from present day artists such as Wangechi Mutu, Kara Walker, Sofia Maldonado, Kehinde Wiley ; including a few pioneers such as Frida Kahlo and Antonio Gaudi.

Sam’s work focuses on the exploration of identity and the integration of cultures. Sharing experiences from her own life, the lives of her peers and strangers to bring the reality of this beautiful struggle called ‘life’ to the forefront.

Recognized for her public art and solo shows in Chicago, Sam Kirk has exhibited in New York, Miami, Washington DC, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis. She was recently selected to design the Chicago Made space during the 2015 SXSW conference, won the Curator’s Choice award for the 2014 Redbull Curates Chicago contest and, exhibited at Scope art fair in December 2014. She has been commissioned by Guinness, Smirnoff, Ciroc, Rolling Stone Magazine and Proctor & Gamble.

Resolute in her belief of giving back to the community, she donates 25% of her direct profits to the efforts of a variety of well-deserving organizations throughout the nation. Sam earned a B.F.A. in Interior Design and a B.A. in Marketing from Columbia College in Chicago.