Amanda Szot

"I knew that I was an artist when I was about 6 years old. I have always had a strong desire to release my thoughts and emotions by creating artwork and poetry and by helping others in my community learn about themselves and the world through art.

"I was born and raised near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. My family moved to Ironwood in 1992, and I was completely uprooted from all things familiar. I did eventually fall in love with the land and Lake Superior, but when I left Ironwood in 1995 to go to the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, I thought, “Wow! I will never have to go back to Ironwood again.” I have never been more wrong in my life. After a short time of being away, I realized that Lake Superior and the north woods were a very strong influence on my artwork and my life. I knew within a year of leaving that Ironwood was my true home.

"I feel very fortunate to have been able to return to Ironwood in 1999. My connection to the people, animals and landscape of the South Shore of Lake Superior is fundamental to my well-being and happiness. I hope that my presence and the knowledge I share will bring joy and peace to all others I meet.

"I keep my days full of art and creativity that I can share with others. I currently work at the Pine Tree Gallery as gallery manager and teach continuing education and after school jewelry classes at the Hurley K-12 school. I create artwork and jewelry under my business name, Dancing Raven ArtWorks, to sell through galleries and small local art fairs. I feel very fortunate to be able to donate my time and talents for creative projects in the community as often as I can."