Visual Artist
Bonita Ruttkay was born and raised in British Columbia, Canada. During her career as a Flight Attendant, she was able to explore local art scenes in many cities around the world. This innovative spirit, plus her own painting and drawing activities, have served Bonita well. Upon retirement from flying twelve years ago, she was already well on the path for the next stage of her life.
Bonita received her classical training with the Federation of Canadian Artists Foundation Program, 1994 — 1995, with “Distinction.” Her teachers were Alan Wylie, Mike Svob and Rick McDiarmid. This excellent instruction, along with numerous workshops down through the years provided a solid base. She enjoys keeping her skills sharp with weekly plein air events and life drawing sessions using a live model. Her work is in collections in the USA, Europe, and Canada.
Bonita is on the Executive of the Richmond Artists Guild and serves as their Demonstrations Coordinator. She is also on the Richmond Public Arts Selection Panel and volunteers at the Gateway Theatre. The historic fishing village of Steveston, BC, is home, and where she paints, exhibits, teaches, and finds constant inspiration.
“I have included several local scenes which were all begun during “en plein air” excursions. I particularly enjoy and am inspired by painting on location. There is something about feeling part of the flow of life around me that carries over into the painting. As long as I capture my first impressions on the canvas this way, the rest falls into place later in the studio.”
