ABOUT US
Art & Wick’s inception began when we (Christian and Amy) met during a Kennesaw State University Music Class. Our professor suggested that we work together to play background music for a Christmas event on campus. During our first rehearsal, we jumped right into playing the music without even really knowing each other. Instantly we realized that our ability to tell a story through sound was stronger when we worked together. Over time, we started writing music in a way neither of us could have achieved on our own. Truth be told, our tastes in music are almost opposite in some regards, but these differences pushed each of us to learn to listen more intently and grow deeper as artists in our respective crafts. We chose to keep writing, keep editing, and keep crafting until we were both fully content with the final record… and through the process became family. Inspired by nature, we are passionate about authenticity, artistry, and Hope. We are so grateful to be able to write and play music together, and can’t wait to cut another record!
CHRISTIAN ARTIEDA
Born in Quito, Ecuador, Christian Artieda is a musician, composer, and educator. He graduated with a Music Education degree from Kennesaw State University, studying Jazz Guitar under Trey Wright; he also completed the Joel A. Katz Music & Entertainment Business program at Kennesaw State University.
Christian is a Music Specialist at an elementary school, and he also teaches music theory and composition lessons.
Christian enjoys composing and writing music for a variety of ensembles. His piece “We Will See the Moon” was performed by the Kennesaw State University Women’s Choir, his piece “Have Things Changed” was performed by a string quartet at a KSU recital of student composers, and his piece “Coffee at 4 a.m.” was performed by the Kennesaw State University Jazz Guitar Ensemble. The latter was also performed at the GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) Conference and conducted by Christian himself.
Other than music related activities, Christian enjoys traveling, hiking, learning trivia about FIFA World Cups, drinking yerba mate, and playing on Nintendo Switch.
AMY SMITHWICK
Amy Smithwick is an artist, songwriter, and vocalist, with experience across many genres of music. Driven by an intrepid mind and hand, Amy writes thoughtful, provocative, and refreshing music. Alongside her songwriting career, she often performs in the world of classical music which you can learn more about here.
Amy and her husband Brody founded Lion Life, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which offers educational services to incarcerated individuals, where she has pioneered an innovative music program on the inside of the jail. Her passion to serve others through teaching, discussing, and making Art comes from her own personal experiences with the power of music.
Alongside her love for music, Amy has a passion for motherhood, writing, painting, the culinary arts, and story-telling. She also works as a freelance web + graphic designer at Smithwick House. When she is not composing, she is most likely watching classic films with her husband, or dancing with her daughter.
She would like to thank the Lord for the gift of her voice, husband & family for unconditional love, and friends for constant support.
