“I love the bright colors and values of the Southwest.  Combining the forms of abstract and the realism of images is my goal.  Using large shapes and values, the viewer is led through the painting to discover the subject, which may not be seen with first glance.  The abstract shape relates to the subject, and conveys a message or feeling about the object.” ~Michaelin Otis

Michaelin Otis is a nationally known artist, workshop leader, art show juror and author.  She owned  Avalon Arts, a gallery and teaching studio in White Bear Lake, MN for 18 years.  Her well-received book,”Watercolor for the Fun of It – Painting People,” was published by North Light Books in 2005.  She is a contributing author for “Drawing and Painting People – The Essential Guide”, and has illustrated 10 children’s books.  She will be featured in the upcoming new book on mixed media by Karlyn Holman.  The latest  Childrens  book, “Trainman” is published by the Autism and Asperger Publishing Company.   Her compelling portraits have been featured in local and national publications, on book covers, in magazines and on CD covers, as well as in an invitational equine exhibit at S.P.A.S. Gallery in St. Petersburg, Russia, in June of 2005.   She has written articles for several magazines, including  “Watercolor”,” Artist Magazine” and “Watercolor Magic”.  Her work has been featured in many others, most recently  in  “Western Art Collector” and “Southwest Art”.   Michaelin has won numerous awards in juried shows across the country , and has her signature membership in the Louisiana Watercolor Society, the Taos National Society of Watercolors and Artists Changing Tomorrow.    As an instructor for H K Holbein art materials, she taught  at trade shows around the country.

Michaelin was accepted into “A New Look at the West” at the Pearce Art Museum, Corsica, Texas.

Are you interested in purchasing Michaelin Otis’ work? Please contact Rogoway Turquoise Tortoise Gallery for more information.