Introducing Anna Kaufman
As some of you may know, I manage more than one business. Between my fine art practice, Wagner Collagraph Wax (PrintWax), teaching, exhibitions, and the ongoing activities at Pier 11 Studio, there is rarely a dull moment. As I prepare to enter my sixth decade in this Year of the Fire Horse, I find myself struggling to keep pace with its galloping momentum.
That is why I am delighted to introduce the very talented Anna Kaufman as my new Artist Assistant for Pier 11 Studio, Elise Wagner Fine Art, and Wagner Collagraph Wax (PrintWax).
Anna is an artist and graduate of Vassar College whose creative practice centers on the environment, with a particular focus on forest preservation, ecological stewardship, and activism. Through her artwork and advocacy, she explores the complex relationships between people, place, and the natural world. Her commitment to environmental awareness and conservation aligns beautifully with many of the values that inform our work here on the North Coast.
As Artist Assistant, Anna will be helping with studio operations, communications, website updates, order fulfillment, workshop support, and many of the behind-the-scenes activities that keep our various enterprises running smoothly. You may see her at Pier 11 Studio events, workshops, and exhibitions, or receive communications from her on my behalf.
One of the things I value most about offering this position is the opportunity it provides for an emerging artist to gain firsthand experience working alongside a professional artist. I vividly remember what it was like to be a young artist finding my way and how profoundly the generosity, guidance, and encouragement of mentors shaped my path. Their willingness to share their knowledge, experience, and opportunities helped me build a sustainable creative life.
Now, thirty years in and having reached a point in my own career where I can give back, it feels especially meaningful to support the next generation of artists. Beyond assisting with day-to-day operations, Anna will gain insight into the many facets of a professional art practice—from studio work and exhibitions to teaching, marketing, product development, and community engagement. When time and studio schedules allow, she will also have access to the print shop to further develop and hone her new found printmaking techniques and pursue her own creative projects.
I am excited to support Anna’s growth as an artist and to share some of the lessons, opportunities, and encouragement that were so generously offered to me throughout my own creative journey. Take a moment to learn more about Anna and her artwork through this link and feel free to drop her a line at anna@pier11studio.com.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of my work, the community at Pier 11 Studio and Wagner Collagraph Wax. I simply couldn’t live this multi-dimensional creative life without your support and for that I am truly grateful.
Warmly,
Elise
Artist, Educator & Founder
Elise Wagner Fine Art, Pier 11 Studio and Wagner Collagraph Wax (PrintWax)
A note from Anna:
Dear Pier 11 Studio community,
I’m so excited to be joining the Pier 11 studio team. I am an artist and a writer with a background in environmental advocacy, and I’m passionate about the critical role of art as a mode of resistance, resilience, and care. My own work ranges from pen drawings, to oil painting, to multimedia installations, and often explores environmental and social topics.
I currently live in Portland, Oregon, though I spend much of my time in Astoria, where I lived for several years during my early twenties. Astoria still has my heart. The town has an unparalleled level of community, attention to the arts, and a stunningly unique landscape. Of course, all of these attributes are embodied by Pier 11 Studio. Located right atop the Columbia River, Pier 11 has a front row seat to one of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems on the planet — the river that has been feeding us literally and creatively for time immemorial. The Columbia is simply what makes Astoria the special place that it is. In today’s fast paced and screen-obsessed society, Pier 11 Studio provides a necessary resting place. It is a space for people of all backgrounds to connect, swap stories, learn, gather inspiration, and participate in the age-old human tradition of making.
I can’t wait to get to know all of you, and to participate in this wonderful community of creatives!
Anna Kaufman
