There is just something about getting out and exploring the North Woods. After a hike in the woods, that crisp air beckons me to cozy up with a warm blanket and cup of cocoa after a long hike. Each issue we encourage you to step into the shoes of artisans in a particular region. And this issue we are exploring Duluth, Minnesota.
The city of Duluth sits right next to the cool waters of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes. The metropolitan area has a little under 300,000 people. The beauty of this area brings in millions of tourists each year, as Duluth is the gateway to the North shore. I have stories to share from three artisans inspired by these north woods.
Aaron Kloss started his career as an artist in 2012, painting with a distinctive style that has become well known in the area. One reason his designs are unique is that they are typically painted on a black canvas. He draws inspiration from his surroundings. “We like to go hiking in the area. I paint landscapes from my memories of what I see on those hikes.”
Given how distinctive his style is, I was curious how he developed it. “I worked in graphic design for many years after college. This gave me an opportunity to explore a few different disciplines. I ended up combining printmaking techniques with art techniques to create a style of my own. Then I added in painting on a black canvas. Color interacts differently on a black canvas.”
It’s a unique style that has paid off over the years as he has slowly and steadily built up more relationships with galleries. “I’ve had good relationships in the area with a couple different kinds of galleries. Some galleries are more connected to people that are living locally, and others are in higher foot traffic areas with tourists. You need a balance of these relationships. Local relationships have led to additional commissions and custom work. The galleries catering toward tourists give me exposure to a lot more people.”
While much of his work is sold through his own online shop and galleries, he has been also creating custom commissioned work. “I really enjoy the commissioned work as I get to help bring a vision to life for what someone wants for their space. The work is a little different and challenging in its own ways. You have to be careful with the designs to honor what the customer wants. Someone might request several things in the design. You have to make sure they all work together properly. For example, you can’t have a layout that has a river going uphill. That doesn’t work. But I enjoy the challenge of taking on some of these custom commissions to bring additional variety to the work”.
After exploring paintings with Aaron, I shifted my focus to the trees themselves and explored the craft of wood carving. Patrick Lamb grew up with woodworking and wood carving. “I started my craft young. My dad was always making something.” He also grew up with a love for fishing, camping, and all that comes with the north woods. He eventually moved on to a 12 acre property with plenty of trees. We talked about how he sources his raw materials for carving. “I focus on birch, oak, maple and basswood trees- all things available locally. I source most of my wood right from my property. I also built a relationship with a local logger. Sometimes he also brings me wood for carving.”
“Bowls are where I started selling. Over the years, I started adding copper and turquoise stone inlays to my designs. I have to use a softer stone to be able to shape it. This material I also source from Pipestone, MN to keep my product local from the state. Like many artisans, his business continues to evolve over time. “While I started with bowls, the work eventually moved into bigger projects, like furniture. I also enjoy working on custom commissions.”
Given all the variables of the trees, the designs, etc. I was curious what happens when the product doesn’t quite turn out as expected- or turn out at all. He shared “As artisans, we all have pieces that don’t quite turn out. For me, the bowl that doesn’t turn out becomes heat in my fireplace”
Speaking of heat, what north woods scene would be complete without the gentle crackle of a campfire? I met Kristin Hinrichs at her shop in Esko, MN. Woodfire candles started at her kitchen table back in 2012. When she started her business, wooden wicks were new. “We’re in the north woods- I wanted my candles to crackle like a tiny bonfire.” There is something so soothing about listening to the gentle crackle of her candles. It reminds me of sitting around a campfire making s’mores.
The early days of growth brought challenges. “We quickly outgrew the table and expanded to a bedroom, then the basement, then the garage. They’re in my mom’s garage too!” Much of her early business grew through wholesale. From the tiny beginnings at that kitchen table, her business is now selling to over 320 stores in several countries.
“I also added a retail space later to add to the overall profitability of the business. It’s also where we do our manufacturing. Locals love to stop by to see our process and buy things. It’s a great place to do community events to support the local community.
As we grew, we needed to diversify our revenue streams. It didn’t matter as much when it was just me. But I’ve grown to eight on my team. We’ve started doing craft shows to help with overall cash flows. We’ve also added a subscription box. Each revenue stream helps. And it helps me build this company to the point where someday I could sell the company if I wanted to.”
When I asked her for words of wisdom for others on this journey, she shared “You grow into it over time. We didn’t know how to do all of this at once. We kept building little by little.”
As my time in Duluth drew to a close, I reflected on all of my conversations. The north woods has left its indelible mark on these artisans. Each creation, be it a painting, a carved masterpiece, or a woodfire candle, bears the imprint of this unique environment. They invite us to linger, and witness the beautiful connection between creativity and nature.
