Katherine Rutter Email & Phone Number

Oakland, Ca, Us

My work explores the complex ideas of femininity and beauty within fantastical and delicate environments. Strongly influenced by the Southern region in which I was raised, I create ambiguous narratives of plantlife merging with human and animal forms. Conflicting themes of nostalgia, vulnerability, sexuality, wonder, subtle humor and the unknown reveal a tender experience of humanity. The vernacular expressions and innate desires we have as humans to connect to ourselves and to nature are addressed consistently throughout my work, requesting a deeper understanding of our existence.My drawings usually begin by ‘painting’ with hair-like algae, an intuitive process that allows me to connect with my subconscious, like one might find images in clouds. The algae provides a natural aesthetic quality, but also nods to my Southern roots and its folk tradition of found materials in art. The addition of subtle colors and gentle lines give an initial feeling of warmth and familiarity, often bringing to mind illustrations from old children’s books, certainly an influence in my practice.While many of the themes and colors remain consistent throughout my work regardless of my use of material, my mural projects become more about beauty as a point of connection. Working in public spaces provide interaction with a community and reveal how beauty is necessary for all people in all places, giving a sense of imagination, relief and joy.