Jennie Rutz

The world is full of contradictions and contrasts which intrigue me. These themes play recurring roles in my life and paintings:

Freedom vs Entrapment, Wild vs Civilized, Exposure vs Mystery, Natural vs Man-made, Imagination vs Reality, and Male vs Female

My life is full of contrasts...

I grew up with three sisters, although when I was young I was a dedicated tomboy with short hair and ninja turtle shirts. While I was born and raised in the Canadian badlands surrounded by prairies, I feel most at home on the beach.

I fulfilled my childhood dream of becoming an animator in Toronto, but I eventually had to face reality. I felt trapped in my life and gave myself permission to break free. I left Canada behind in pursuit of self discovery in Italy, a land of extreme contrasts, and a place that runs in my bloodline. I lived there for four years prior to settling in the Sunshine Coast of Queensland and becoming a mother. My daughter is now 7 years old.

I'm inspired by the courage of women to be true to themselves, despite all the conflicting influences surrounding us. Because of this, my business donates to the MALALA FUND, an organization that advocates 12 years of education for every girl on the planet.