About Karen Ottenbreit

I grew up on the south side of Chicago, but my home for more than 20 years has been Alaska. I love it here! There is no place in the world I would rather be.

Although I haven't had any formal training as an artist, I've had plenty in the sciences. In high school and college it was always assumed I would be a scientist of some sort. Biology and anthropology were my college majors. Art classes where something I attempted if I had time in between anatomy and calculus classes (what was I thinking?).

Due to the unkind vagaries in life, I never did earn my degree. Like most people, I simply worked to make ends meet.

Finally, a time came in my life when I could pursue my own interests. I did wheel-thrown pottery for several years before discovering polymer clay.

Because I have an incredibly wonderful and supportive husband, I have been able to devote most of my time and energy to creating and selling my art.

I was recently honored to have a "how to" tutorial article published in February 2010 issue of Polymer Cafe. (Alaskan Canned Salmon) 

Meet the "Kids" from whom I derive so much joy and inspiration:
 

My boy Butch, the American Bulldog	Tucker and his favorite toy
Tanu the Meyers parrot	Jinx, the African Grey
Baby Huey, the 9 year old humongous oscar