Christopher Selleck

How and why did you become an artist?

I was a weird teen and fell into theater which led me into photography in 1991. Have been exploring that and other mediums ever since! It became a great way to discover who I was and how I fit in, or don’t at times too.

What medium(s) do you work in?

Trained as a photographer, but my practice includes printmaking, sculpture, book arts and installation.

How long have you been working as an artist?

25 + years but the last 10 have been most productive/significant.

What are some of your biggest inspirations as an artist?

Seeing other artwork and meeting other artists is always inspiring!

What is your connection to Northeast Minneapolis?

7 year studio tenant in Thorp Building.

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

It connects interested people and artists with me. I’m in a building with limited events so AAW is an opportunity to be open!

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

Conversations and connections that may not feel fruitful in the moment but are seeds for future opportunities!

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

The organizing and connecting. The listings and insight it gives people who might look at AAW and not know where to begin.

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

Having a studio space that I use year round has been CRITICAL for me landing exhibitions and opportunities. It presents me as a professional and allows me to present my work in the way it is meant to be seen.

A studio visit with full sized prints on the wall and lit are a MUCH different experience then meeting on zoom talking about work. I use my space like a collaborator in my process. I’d say AAW is an amazing event but for me the real magic happens year round.

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

I feel like AAW grew into a music festival/brewery tour-LOVE that brings folks in, but grateful that the focus on ARTS and artists seems to be back in focus.

Why is art important in our community?

Art is an outlet and a way to express or communicate feelings and emotions. MN is not always the best place to sell work, but thankfully the granting system is top notch!

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

It would be like North Loop maybe? I love that area but not having a place to work as an artist would be a challenge.

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

More focus and attention on individual artists. Figuring out ways to help cultivate visitors into collectors. Informing and educating them on that process.

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

Beautify the neighborhood but also make sure that spaces for artists are affordable and won’t be turned into expensive rental properties.

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

I have a very specific focus in my work and recognize that it is not for everyone. I think the people that find my work and see themselves in it feel very seen and making space for folks like that makes me tremendously happy.