Photo: Bre Pettis

Al Larsen

Al Larsen is an American media artist, musician, writer, and educator whose multidisciplinary practice spans drawing, printmaking, performance, sound, interactive media, and programmable technologies. He holds an MFA from the University at Buffalo and a BA from the University of Oregon, and is a professor and director of the Creative Media BFA program at Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont. [Champlain College](https://www.champlain.edu/academics/undergraduate-academics/degrees-programs/uxid/?program-page=faculty\&utm_source=chatgpt.com) Larsen's artwork often explores personal narrative, popular culture, public space, and the relationship between handmade and technological processes. His recent **Critters Encore** series transforms spontaneous notebook sketches—combining doodles, lyrics, and observational drawings—through digital vectorization, pen-plotter technology, and expressive hand-painted ink. [Bantam Tools](https://bantamtools.com/products/al-larsen-critters-encore-dfwyl-rain-2-copy?utm_source=chatgpt.com) His work has been exhibited in the United States and internationally, with residencies including the Center for Machine Arts in Peekskill, New York. [Champlain College](https://www.champlain.edu/academics/undergraduate-academics/degrees-programs/uxid/?program-page=faculty\&utm_source=chatgpt.com) Larsen is also the founding member and vocalist/guitarist of the influential Olympia, Washington indie band **Some Velvet Sidewalk**, which returned in 2026 with *Critters Encore*, its first new album in nearly three decades. [allmusic.com](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/some-velvet-sidewalk-mn0000751406?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Artist's website (artgallery.champlain.edu) ↗

4 physical works