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Meet the Makers

Local Artists Who Gift a Piece of Themselves in Their Art

Susan Poer

For Susan, helping people express their creativity is a passion. Her workshops in various disciplines, including felting, sewing, and painting, allow her students to learn new skills in a supportive and fun environment. A ceramicist at heart, Susan is currently exploring mixed media. You can learn more about her art and workshops at SusanPoerArt.com.

Kyle Shirk

A Lawrence native, Shirk makes kitchen knives that are works of art. His practical, ergonomic, and stylish knives are made at his forge on his family’s farm. With 18 years of experience and a metalsmithing degree from KU, Kyle’s work is design-forward and wonderfully tactile. You can see his work at ShirkForge.wixsite.com/ShirkForge

Sam Azzaro

With a BFA in painting and sculpture, Azzaro’s creativity knows no end. They create challenging, thoughtful, and meaningful work that reflects their experiences as a trans person. Working in multiple mediums, including printmaking, painting, and sculpture, their bold and colorful work is representative of who they are. To see more of Sam’s work, go to MxofBizarre.com

Karen McGrath

McGrath’s granddaughters, Mikayla and Annie, are the inspiration for KK & Annie’s Empowering Candles. She wants to ensure that they grow up to be strong women. Many of her candles come with empowering messages and, unlike most commercial candles, are made with luxury, non-toxic coconut wax and fragrances. To learn more, go to Kkanniesempoweringcandles.com.

Lisa LaRue Baker

As a member of the Cherokee Nation, LaRue Baker is a traditional basketmaker, photographer, musician, textile artist, and arts educator. Creativity is her passion, and she finds that creativity is often the best way to educate others. Her work can be viewed at her gallery, 785 Arts in Topeka, and 785arts.com