Andy Jacobs

How and why did you become an artist?

Why? It seems really important to heed the creative calling when you hear it, to let art change you. How? I decided on a long term commitment to forging a path forward with creative integrity. At times it is incredibly challenging, feeling like an uphill battle, and at others times I am struck with how rich and fulfilling this existence can be.

What medium(s) do you work in?

Fibers/Textiles, Sculpture, etc.

How long have you been working as an artist?

I think there is a differentiation between ‘living’ and ‘working’ as an artist. ‘Working’ as an artist invokes the idea of an income tied to making things. ‘Living’ as an artist invokes the idea of a commitment to one’s art practice, a dedication to making and exploring and expanding, to living in accordance with one’s creative callings. I would rather answer the question of how long I have been ‘living’ as an artist, which would probably be since I started my undergrad out in Portland, Oregon, in 2011. Or maybe it has been since I first picked up a drawing tool at age 2, most likely a bright yellow crayon.

What are some of your biggest inspirations as an artist?

The work I make is deeply inspired by the study of ecology, investigating the field of intrinsic relations and interconnectedness found in ecological systems.  I’m deeply inspired by mycelium networks and their ability to break down and rebuild, compost and make new. I think a lot about soil, compost, plant life, and other aspects of the more-than-human world.

What is your connection to Northeast Minneapolis?

I’ve had a studio in the Casket Arts Building since 2017, it’s been my home base since then. The NE Arts district is easily my favorite pocket of the Twin Cities, I love living and working in NE.

How does Art-A-Whirl benefit you as an artist?

The volume of visitors means many more eyes on my work, which means more comments, questions, and conversations about my practice. I think through all of this I have become better acquainted with my own practice and motives. I’ve also met curators, interior designers, and collectors though AAW and it has propelled my practice forward with more opportunities. 

Any good stories or memories of an experience at Art-A-Whirl that you can share? What stands out?

What stands out to me during AAW weekend is easily the people. I’ve shared studio 413 in the casket arts building with some really, really lovely people over the years. Currently I share the studio with Meg Elaine O’Sheaheimer (Nelie.g.mae) and Briar Marsh Pine. The past two AAW weekends all three of us invite our partners to come and hang out in the studio with us, and so it ends up feeling like a big fun queer creative party with people I really enjoy being around. It is so sweet to have such a supportive uplifting energy in the studio to help us get through the busy weekend. 

One other AAW moment I will share that I think is pretty funny but on a more serious note validates the work that I make: Last year for AAW I had some large scale, organic shaped woven textiles hanging in my space. An older man walks right in, puts is hands on his hips, looks at the work and and said loudly “”weird””, then just walked away. I, of course, overheard. I laughed so hard at the comment. But it also made me think “”good! my work must be doing something if its making this person feel this way.”” I wanted to ask him why do you think its weird? What does weird mean to you? To engage deeper and hear more about his thoughts. Weird is good in my book. It forces us to ask questions.

What has being a NEMAA member meant to you? What do you value most about membership?

The newsletters are so helpful in communicating all the happenings in the NE arts district, it has helped me stay attuned to all that is going on in the art scene here – art openings, open calls for shows and residencies, grants opportunities, places to take workshops. 

What do you wish more people knew about the arts scene in Northeast Minneapolis?

There are so many ways to be an artist and I think all the studio buildings and art spaces in NE help showcase this. From commercial to conceptual, it is all worth engaging with.

Art-A-Whirl and NEMAA turn 30 years old in 2025. Can you believe it? What changes have you witnessed?

I’ve been participating in AAW since 2017. I think the biggest way it has changed would be all the expansion of all the music, markets, and community events. There is just so much to do now, it truly is a whole weekend experience. I am glad it gets the community out and engaged with the local art scene.

Why is art important in our community?

Art allows us to dream a new world into existence. It’s life affirming, it’s healing. It allows us to ask hard questions and mull over the answers. It asks us to investigate, to look deeper. It grants us expansion of the mind and spirit. It’s sacred and it’s integral to the community. 

Can you imagine a world WITHOUT the arts community in Northeast Minneapolis? How would the community be different?

No and I feel this is a dangerous question! I would much rather use my imagination to think of ways we can expand accessibility to the arts in our community, infusing creativity into more aspects of our local communities. 

What are your hopes and dreams for Art-A-Whirl, NEMAA, and/or the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District in the next 30 years?

Stay focused on the Art and the Artists! More workshops and artist talks! More events centering the vibrant creative talent in NE!

If you could make one change in Northeast Minneapolis, no matter the cost, what would it be?

I would open more exhibition spaces. I think the addition of spaces like Dreamsong Gallery and Public Functionary are incredibly important in accessing all the various ways to take in art in this neighborhood. Occasionally AAW starts to feel a little commercial and focused on the buying and selling of work (which is wonderful,  support our local makers!!) but it’s good to be reminded that viewing art in galleries is also really important. Going to arts talks or artists panels is one of my favorite ways to engage with viewing and understanding artwork and  practices. I think having more spaces that engage deeply and openly with the community are so valuable, healing, and necessary.

Tell us again why you love being an artist and what your work brings to the community.

I love the vibrancy of connection of being an artist and getting the honor to meet so many other creative and talented folks. I love the conversations, the exchanges, and inspiration that come from these connections. My hopes are that my practice brings more of this to the community.