Ruthie V. produces artwork that connects and contributes to her community. Ruthie believes that her work is successful when people involve themselves in it. “By developing shows in conjunction with local nonprofits, I am able to create paintings that come from my heart, and make a difference in the community,” she explains.

Ruthie V. currently lives in Bellingham, Washington and balances her career as an artist with her other job as an architectural color consultant. "Artists who choose to live here make a lot of sacrifices. Most artists have a job to support their art. Very few artists are able to make art their full time labor. Bellingham is a special place, and because of that, some people make financial sacrifices so that they can live here. Those few left that are making art here make a fraction of what they could make in a city like Seattle.”

Apart from painting, Ruthie keeps busy in her community and is a proud member of the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce, Whatcom Young Professionals, Sustainable Connections, and was 2007’s “Volunteer of the Year” with Kulshan Community Land Trust. Nominated by Cascadia Weekly as “Bellingham’s Best Artist” in 2008, Ruthie loves making art and living in Bellingham, WA.

For more information on Ruthie V. and her talented artwork check out her website “Feel Good Where You Live” at: www.ruthiev.com or www.fifthonsixth.com/ruthie.html.