Brian Ottoson: Visual Artist

During his childhood, Brian Ottoson’s experience with nature was rooted in camping trips with his step-dad. At the time, he found himself more fascinated with the rivers and gators than plants - but once he got to college, a biotech course sparked that interest in him. 

“My friend gave me my first Portulacaceae, a little elephant bush, and it kind of spiraled out of control from there.”

After moving to an artist retreat, Brian got to discover a new medium of art to create when he worked with a welder for the first time. He started using anything from scrap steel to silverware to sculpt flowers that have a unique, rustic look. 

“I started doing some Phalaenopsis, and I think I did some little…cymbidium orchids out of just scrap steel.”

Plants are an outlet for Brian when he’s unable to work on his art and caring for them has taught him valuable lessons. 

“They've shown me that you can change and become more beautiful with time if you're given the care and or self-care.”

A film by Jacopo Fantastichini.