Artist Profile: Ru Otto
Name:
Ru Otto
Hometown:
Everett
Neighborhood:
Downtown
Your Medium/Craft:
Acrylic Paint on canvas
Years doing your craft:
On and off 50 years
Artist Ru Otto and Roameo // Courtesy Ru Otto
How did you first get started in your craft?
I was introduced to painting at Ohio State University in 1967.
Papaya Dreams // Courtesy Ru Otto
Favorite Artist(s) and/or Inspirations?
Nature is always my favorite inspiration.
Favorite Piece You've Created?
"Fire Turtle"
Fire Turtle // Courtesy Ru Otto
What’s the most challenging part of being an artist, or something you had to overcome?
Taking myself and my art seriously. Marketing is always a challenge, and almost opposite what I like to do. (Editor’s note: Unlike Ru, we love to market local artists. Here’s a link to Ru’s books.) It is also very challenging for me to get out and experience other people's art due to the fact that I am paraplegic and in a motorized wheelchair. I am unable to ride in a normal vehicle so travel is always complicated.
Ghost Garden // Courtesy Ru Otto
How can people be supportive of the arts?
Of course, buying original art from local artists and attending openings and third Thursday Everett Art Walk helps us so much.
Red Petunia // Courtesy Ru Otto
Favorite place in Everett to eat?
Kai Sushi
Favorite place in Everett to hang?
Artspace Everett Lofts
Favorite quote and/or words to live by?
"DON'T GET YOUR PANTIES IN A WAD"
Cat on Stool // Courtesy Ru Otto
What's next for you?
I am joyfully retired from the work world and love spending my days painting and writing my memoir. I also write poetry and am looking forward to the post-COVID opening up of venues that give me the opportunity to read to the public.
Where can people purchase or see more of your art?
Artspace Everett Lofts! We are only open to the public on Artwalk Night on the 3rd Thursday of every month. PLEASE COME VISIT.
Ru Otto’s Crone’s Nest Enterprises
Artspace Everett Lofts
2917 Hoyt Avenue
Everett, WA 98201
DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL ARTIST WHO WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED? SEND THEM HERE FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED.
Live in Everett is a media outlet dedicated to reporting on the good things that happen in our city. We like to share about new restaurants, culture, events, and opportunities for civic engagement. Learn more about us here, and join us as we proudly wave the Everett flag.
