ABOUT ME
I'm Sarah, HI!
ANSWERING THE CALL
I grew up in a Navy family, moving every few years—never quite feeling like I was from anywhere. But when I moved to Maryland to pursue my dream of becoming a sculptor, I found a place that finally felt like home.
I started out in a tiny studio on West 5th Street—the same building where I still work today. When I landed my first major commission, I couldn’t afford both a studio and an apartment, so I lived in a garage and sculpted through it all while studying at Hood College just up the road.
In 2008, my family relocated to rural Pennsylvania, where I led the creation of a community art center under the Office of Economic Development. We returned to Frederick in 2015, and in 2021, I stood in Carroll Creek Park to unveil the Claire McCardell monument—a project made possible through the power of community collaboration.
Our greatest achievements are never ours alone. I’ve seen what we can accomplish when we work together.
In 2017, I was diagnosed with cancer. Our lives were turned upside down—but Frederick showed up for us. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers helped us through. That experience deepened my gratitude and commitment to this city.
Today, I continue to successfully operate an independent, woman-owned business-- Hempel Studios. I teach at Frederick Community College, serve on the board of the Association of Consultants for Liturgical Space, and lead the Communications Ministry at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where I’ve been a member for nearly 20 years.
I live in a little brick house in a neighborhood I love with my husband of 20 years, our daughter (a student in FCPS), and our border collie, Tom Sawyer. I’m running for City Council to give back to the community that gave so much to me—and to help shape a Frederick where everyone can thrive.
“Our greatest achievements are never ours alone. I’ve seen what we can accomplish when we work together.”
The ARTIST
Get to know Sarah's Artwork
Sarah Hempel Irani is a sculptor specializing in figurative works in clay, bronze, and stone. After moving to Maryland to apprentice with the former artist-in-residence at the Washington National Cathedral, she established her studio practice in Frederick, where she has been creating sculpture for over 20 years.
Her work includes large-scale marble statues of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph and, most recently, a 7½-foot bronze monument to fashion designer Claire McCardell installed along Carroll Creek. She is currently creating a life-size marble angel for a cemetery monument in Houston and teaches sculpture at Frederick Community College.
She works out of her studio on West 5th Street, downtown Frederick.
Tom Sawyer
Director of Walkability Outreach
If you live in District 5, there’s a good chance you know Tom Sawyer before you know me. He’s our eight-year-old border collie and walking companion—and, frankly, he might be the more recognizable one in the neighborhood. Whether we’re out in Baker Park, hiking local trails, or just making the rounds in our neighborhood, Tom Sawyer is always up for a walk, a wag, and a good sniff.
Tom’s favorite song? Naturally, “Tom Sawyer” by Rush. His hobbies include chasing tennis balls, making new friends (human and canine alike), and keeping me grounded and moving forward—one step at a time.
MISSION STATEMENT
Community Focused
My mission is to serve the people of Frederick by advocating for safer streets, fair housing, and a thriving arts community. I will work to create accessible, affordable, and sustainable solutions that improve the quality of life for all residents, ensuring our city grows in a way that benefits everyone.