Sam Kirk creates artwork to celebrate people and to inspire pride and recognition for underrepresented communities. Her work explores culture, identity, and the politics that have formed society for generations. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, working class communities continue to be Kirk’s key ingredient of inspiration. Partially autobiographical, her vibrant color palette and intricate line-work highlight cultural communities via multi-toned figures paired with nostalgic city scenes from her childhood and travels. Kirk’s work intentionally provokes the viewer to look beyond its beauty, to question or find the message that lingers to be discussed.

She has exhibited in galleries and museums throughout the United States, worked with many private and commercial clients and made custom artworks for nonprofit organizations in Chicago and New York. You can find Sam on Instagram and Twitter at @iamsamkirk.