The first time I walked into Alaska House Gallery it was 2001. I tagged along with a friend who was writing an article for The Daily News Miner about the recent documentary about artist Clair Fejes and the gallery run by her daughter, Yolande.
“Helllllooooo!!!” bounced down the stairs as we entered. A”hello” I would come to know and love. Sam gave me my first job in a gallery. I took it as a part time day job while waiting tables at night. She also gave me my first solo exhibit in Alaska. She taught me about art, being a business owner, how to treat people, how to love fiercely and unapologetically. She was a straight shooter and had no trouble telling me a guy I was dating “wasn’t the one” or that I needed to “ask more for my work.” She paid attention to details, had a way of making you feel like you belonged and were a part of her “framily” (friends that are family). She was a dear friend, mentor and I miss her so much.
Ron, Sam and my kids in 2018
Installing work at Alaska House Gallery | 2014
Sam meeting Lola for the first time | 2013
Acrylic on Caribou Shed | 2012 ALCHEMY | solo exhibit at Alaska House