Florence Putterman

While growing up in Brooklyn, NY, Florence Putterman set aside the idea of becoming a doctor like her father and decided she wanted to become an artist.  She attended an all girls’ high school but, ironically, was pulled out by her parents after a teacher was unimpressed by her work.  She then began to study advertising and journalism.  She has received both a B.A. and an M.F.A. and eventually began teaching.

Florence’s creative drive: “I have the ability to utilize abstract shapes in place of words is comparable only to that of a poet who understands acrylic paint, sand, and crushed shells as my medium." 

Key emotion represented in her work: “I became inspired by petroglyphs created by the Anasazi Indians after taking a trip to New Mexico."

Thoughts on process: “Through the marriage of paint and canvas, I play with symbols and geometric shapes in a playful way that aims to please all who gaze upon my work."

Personal relationship to her work: “The spontaneity of my work is very exciting to me.  I love to see what shape appear and what they develop into.”

Thoughts on sharing art: “I have taught for many years and I am determined to never be unkind when critiquing a students work."

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