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American Childhood by Ramona Otto
Ramona Otto’s name may not ring a bell instantly for art lovers, but her folksy, Americana approach to art is turning a lot of heads in LA. The retired elementary school teacher recently transformed her home into a “folk art mecca,” putting her pieces on display for the public to enjoy. Former student and current Huffington Post Arts & Culture editor, Priscilla Frank, recently highlighted Otto’s artistic impact and some of her most interesting pieces.
In 2007, Otto’s work was exhibited in her featured show, “An American Love Story: Works by Ramona Otto,” at Los Angeles’ Craft and Folk Art Museum, followed by a solo show display of her finely crafted American Flag sculptures at LA’s City Hall.
Otto is the child of Quaker parents, and grew up in Iowa in the 1950s. The lessons of her upbringing are reflected in her pieces, as the spirit of new life and redemption is found in each object that collides together to make a special and new work of art.
Drawing inspiration from the common objects seen throughout any classroom, Otto’s works recycle and bring new life to vintage, thrifted and uncommon objects. She frequently scours flea markets and garage sales for unique and thoughtful pieces to bring into a new light.
Her work evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, conjuring thoughts of school house fun and the excitement of early childhood learning.
See more of Ramona Otto’s artwork here.
