Ruth Egnater Fine Art

Ruth Egnater, an artist, shares a brief biography.
Ruth Egnater has been an active participant in various artistic endeavors since her childhood, nurtured by her mother, a potter and full-time artist. Notably, fifteen years ago, she embarked on a two-course printmaking program at a local community college, which has since led her to specialize in relief prints. Ruth’s artistic expression primarily revolves around storytelling, with the intention of inspiring patrons to establish personal connections with the images through their own narratives. Currently, she is engaged in the creation of a “Non-Essential Heroine” collection, which reimagines everyday tasks as heroic endeavors imbued with supernatural elements. These tasks encompass actions such as salvaging water, disposing of litter, and establishing communication with animals.
Among the various aspects of printmaking that Ruth finds particularly gratifying is the carving, which she describes as both meditative and soothing. Ruth actively engages with other printmakers within the The Baren Forum, facilitates international trade with artists, and participates in both local and international exhibitions and competitions. Additionally, she contributes to silent auctions and charitable events, including this year’s Fur Ball, the Empty Plate event at her food bank, and a local nonprofit women’s center. Supporting her community and utilizing her art for positive purposes holds a profound significance in Ruth’s life. Notably, she is a member of “the Lino Ladies,” a group of female artists who convene monthly or more to plan future prints, collaborate on group projects, attend art exhibitions, and foster a sense of camaraderie and laughter.

Ruth Egnater- Artist Statement
As a nurse and nurse educator, while also raising two daughters and supporting my husband, I sought to incorporate an artistic element into my daily routine. I explored bookmaking, jewelry, and pottery, but my greatest passion emerged from oil painting. Then fifteen
years ago, after participating in a printmaking class, I resolved that my retirement would revolve around the art of printmaking.
Carving is often a meditative experience and a good time to listen to music that matches the theme. Regardless of the subject matter, I find the challenge of transforming a piece of linoleum, wood, or paper into a two-dimensional relief print that captivates and challenges the viewer. The boundless possibilities of lines and designs in printmaking enable a diverse range of images.
When I print the linocut, there are consistently unforeseen outcomes. These surprises contribute to the uniqueness and potential enhancement of each print. The carving process and the delightful imperfections that show up are some of my favorite parts of printmaking. I refer to them as “happy mistakes.”
I generate my images from ideas and the narratives I create in my mind. The final product is rarely what I start with. My prints are hand-pulled and limited editions. The images I make are original but deeply inspired by other artists, museums, the natural splendor and wildlife of our planet, the political climate, and my own story.