Annie Ruth

Artist Statement:

Combining acrylic, mixed media and collage, I often fuse several styles of art such as surrealism and expressionism. I describe this style as “spiritual portraits” — capturing the essence of the theme of the art. The composition utilizes symbolism contrasted with vibrant color. This self-reflective piece portrays my hope of bringing sisters together from all nationalities. It also portrays the diversity within Americans of African descent. The central figure, which is indicated by the front view of the face is presented as a tri-part symbolizing SPIRIT – SOUL—BODY.
The woman’s face is stern because the cares of life weigh heavy on her countenance — there are unspoken battles that she always has to fight. Her natural eyes are closed but she sees clearly in the Spirit. The dark and light brown rings resembles a headdress of eight
foundational women – of different classes, clans, customs and circumstance. The women’s arms are raised in praise to their Creator and praise to their sister. They are a covering for her — representing intercession and unity. The piece has bible scriptures embedded within all three parts of the woman— Provers 31, Ecclesiastes 3, which symbolize who she is in
whatever season that she experiences — She is a virtuous woman in and out of season.

To learn more about Annie Ruth visit: www.annieruth.com

Bio:

Annie Ruth is an internationally respected artist and arts educator based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her work positively influences audiences in Europe, Africa, and throughout the United States. For over 40 years, she has been stirring up her gift to impact the world. She is an award-winning author who has published over 40 volumes of poetry, books, curriculum sets and articles for both children and adults. Her arts and education curriculum sets are used in educational and cultural institutions across the country.

Annie Ruth earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from National University in San Diego, California. In 2001, she established Eye of the Artists Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) 3 public charity to connect more arts programming and arts education to underserved communities. She studied graphic design at the University of Cincinnati, College of Design Architecture and Art and served eight years in the United States Air Force Reserve, working and training as a graphic technician. She is a trailblazer who has received critical acclaim for her work in the community. She fuses her artistic talents with arts education and collaborates with major cultural institutions and museums to bring art directly to communities throughout the United States and abroad. Annie Ruth has exhibited in major national and international museums, institutions and venues including the National Afro American Museum & Cultural Center, Cincinnati Museum Center and National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Her commissioned works are in the collections of Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Children’s for Children/Procter & Gamble the Presbyterian Foundation, and numerous other corporate and private collectors.

Annie Ruth has also gained acclaim for the artwork she has created for numerous children’s picture books, which she wrote and illustrated. A few of her awards include the Athena International Leadership Award, NAACP Innovative Educator/ Arts Award, YWCA Career Woman of Achievement, Cincinnati Herald Nefertiti Award, Cincinnati Enquirer Woman of the Year, two Ohio Senate Commendations, U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Recognition and a featured Black History vignette by Fox Network, narrated by Tyra Banks.

@whoisannieruth