Meet the RNA Artist: Amanda Francom

02.28.2022. The above image is a photo of our artist Amanda Francom and their art piece used for the RNA Gathering.

The artwork for the Railroads in Native America (RNA) Gathering was created by twenty-five years old Amanda Francom, a member of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation. Besides attending the University of Utah (U of U), Francom is a dog groomer and a freelance artist. In 2023, Francom will complete a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree in Printmaking.

Francom attended a 2013 U of U Shoshone Youth Language Program (SYLAP), in order to illustrate a Shoshone language children’s book. Since that experience, they have assisted in the creation of other Shoshone language materials, both as a freelance creator and via their work at the U of U. Francom’s personal focus is on building a portfolio that includes drawings, paintings, and various forms of printmaking.

Amanda described their experience in producing the 2022 RNA artwork this way: “It was a wonderful experience, creating this piece for the gathering— I’m always excited to contribute to indigenous pursuits and education!” Francom will be offering some brief remarks regarding their artwork during the gathering. They can be contacted at:  francomamanda@gmail.com

Come and be a part of the “Railroads in Native America” Gathering, May 19-21, 2022 at the Ogden Union Station. Attendance is free, either in-person or by attending remotely; however, registration is requested, click here.