Andrew Sjodin (b. 1981) is an American painter whose work invites quiet reflection and emotional resonance. Rooted in the traditions of classical realism and infused with the sensibilities of modern impressionism, his paintings offer viewers a space for introspection—works that are at once subtle, contemplative, and deeply human.

Originally from Forest Lake, Minnesota, Sjodin’s path to becoming an artist was anything but linear. After studying philosophy and mathematics at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, he spent his twenties exploring the world and serving others—completing two years with AmeriCorps in Washington State, teaching English in Thailand, and eventually landing in Homer, Alaska.

It was in Alaska that Sjodin’s trajectory shifted. A painting course with artist and mentor Asia Freeman in 2008 proved pivotal. At the final critique of the class, Freeman encouraged him to consider pursuing art more seriously. Taking her advice to heart, Sjodin returned to Minnesota and began searching for an art education that resonated with him. He soon discovered the atelier method—an intensive, traditional approach to training in fine arts that was entirely new to him, but immediately felt correct.

In 2010, Sjodin enrolled in The Atelier Studio Program of Fine Arts in Minneapolis, where he immersed himself in classical drawing and painting techniques under the guidance of Dale Redpath and Cyd Wicker. Over four rigorous years, he honed his craft, developing a foundation in French Academic drawing while cultivating a painterly language influenced by impressionistic color and light.

Today, Sjodin is both an artist and educator. Since 2015, he has taught painting and drawing classes and workshops, and in 2018, he joined the core program teaching staff at The Atelier Studio Program of Fine Arts. His studio practice focuses on still lifes and figurative work, rendered primarily in oils. His compositions are quiet and restrained, imbued with a sense of presence that encourages viewers to pause, observe, and feel.

His work has been exhibited nationally and internationally and is held in private collections across the United States. He has received numerous awards and has been recognized multiple times in the prestigious Art Renewal Center International Salon.
Sjodin currently lives and works on a small farm in Isanti County, Minnesota—about 45 minutes north of the Twin Cities—where he continues to paint, teach, and pursue a life of careful observation and artistic depth.