How It All Started

Shelley and Eric Arndt are from the very flat and sometimes very cold state of Minne(snow)ta.

In July 2019 we vacationed in Astoria, Oregon with our two sons and immediately fell in love with this beautiful state. In early 2020, pre-COVID,  we made the decision to move to Oregon. Shelley continued to work remotely for a Minnesota based law firm while Eric got a job working in Beaverton. Shelley has been painting for over 30 years and Eric has been wood working and taking nature photography for the past three years.

We made Canby, OR our home in October 2020 and after several months we realized that something was missing. We had noticed that there were several antique shops around the area however, there was nothing strictly dedicated to art or artist’s. Even looking for local unique art was difficult to find. 

After visiting Newport, OR in February 2021, we came to the realization that all of the art shops or galleries were mainly located on the coast or in Portland. There was not much for galleries around Canby or surrounding areas.

That is when the idea was born to bring an art gallery to Canby, OR. 

For many years we have wanted to open a business of our own however the time was never right or the idea was never strong enough. We were raising a family and had responsibilities. But now that our sons are adults, we can make our dream a reality.

We have always been huge supporters of the arts. We frequent Broadway plays as well as shows put on by communities, we go to art festivals and fairs just to find and purchase unique art. We are always looking for something unique, something that makes us stop and say “wow!”

We wanted to bring to the city of Canby the opportunity to showcase local and regional artists, those who may not be seen otherwise. We want the local community to see what these amazing artists have to offer. We want to create a sanctuary for artists as well as create a space where you can discover your own artist. 

We wanted to be a part of the local community and give its citizens something that they can enjoy, love and cherish for years to come. The City of Canby has been so welcoming to us that we felt like we wanted to give something back. 

Therefore, we give to you Art-O-Maddic. A different side to art gallery. All original, all hand-made, and all unique art in all different mediums. Paint, glass, wood, ceramic, metal, jewelry and more. This is not your typical gallery. This is a gallery for the artists and the people.