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Sam Barsky, the Baltimore-based artist known for his intricately designed pictorial knit sweaters, has gained widespread recognition through his viral Instagram posts. In February 2025, his latest museum exhibition, “Sam Barsky: It’s Not the Same Without You,” opened at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The exhibition showcases his unique craft, blending knitting with storytelling and artistry.
The Exhibition and Its Origins
The exhibition came about when the John Michael Kohler Arts Center reached out to Sam, a common occurrence for him due to his growing popularity. After a series of meetings, Sam selected sweaters that he doesn’t wear regularly and those he believed the public would enjoy. The exhibition also includes artist talks and knitting circles, where Sam shares his story, engages in Q&A sessions, and meets attendees. These events, scheduled for May 2025, will feature additional sweaters not on display, offering a deeper look into his creative journey.
Sam’s Knitting Journey
Sam’s fascination with knitting began in high school when he joined a craft club and learned a basic yarn technique. Despite his interest, he struggled to find resources to learn knitting or crochet during college. After dropping out of nursing school in 1999, he finally found mentors at a flea market who taught him to knit in exchange for purchasing their yarn. This marked the beginning of his knitting journey.
Initially, Sam made solid-colored scarves and sweaters, but he soon sought more complexity. Inspired by a Vogue subscription card featuring a “Map of the World” sweater, he ventured into multicolored designs despite being discouraged by a yarn shop owner. His persistence paid off, and he successfully completed the sweater after five months. This achievement led him to experiment further, eventually freehanding designs without graph paper, a skill he has honed over the years.
The Evolution of His Craft
Sam’s knitting practice has evolved significantly since his early days. He transitioned from following patterns to creating his own designs, often inspired by landmarks and personal experiences. His landmark sweaters, which he wears at the locations they depict, have become a signature aspect of his work. Initially, he wore sweaters coincidentally matching his travel destinations, but he later began creating sweaters specifically for planned trips. This practice gained traction, with people sponsoring his travels in exchange for custom sweaters.
The pandemic temporarily halted his travel-related projects, but he is now resuming this aspect of his work. For instance, he is currently knitting a sweater featuring the Domes, a conservatory in Milwaukee, in anticipation of an upcoming trip.
The Sweaters: Art and Everyday Wear
To date, Sam has created 171 sweaters, each with its own story and design. He wears his sweaters daily, making them a part of his identity. While some sweaters are preserved as art, others are worn regularly, even if they are less visually striking. Sam’s commitment to wearing his creations sets him apart, as he stands out in crowds with his unique attire.
Inspiration and Future Goals
Sam’s passion for knitting drives him to continue creating and sharing his work online. He views his craft as a way to express himself and connect with others. Despite the challenges of putting his work out into the world, he remains dedicated to doing what he loves.
Looking ahead, Sam hopes to reach 200 sweaters within the next two to three years, marking the milestone with a celebration. His long wishlist of destinations and designs ensures that his creative journey will continue to evolve.
Connecting with Sam
Sam’s work can be found on various social media platforms, including Instagram (@SamBarskyKnitter), and his website, where he sells T-shirts featuring his sweater patterns. His exhibition at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center offers a unique opportunity to experience his artistry firsthand, blending knitting, storytelling, and personal expression into a captivating display.
Sam Barsky’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, creativity, and the joy of doing what you love. His sweaters are not just garments but pieces of art that tell stories, connect people, and inspire others to pursue their passions.
