WELCOME IN MUTTISSE
Discover the enchanting world of Muttisse, where Rebecca Clouse blends her love for nature and animals with vibrant artistry, inspired by Matisse to create captivating dog paintings.
Rebecca Clouse has been a resident of Iowa City since 1990, where she transitioned from a decade-long career teaching Medieval Literature at the University of Iowa to pursuing her passion for visual art. With a Ph.D. completed in 1995, Rebecca's academic background informs her artistic vision, allowing her to weave intricate stories through her work.
Her journey began with her first exhibit, "Homo Sentiens," featuring 235 framed portrait sketches that set the tone for her exploration of human connection. Subsequent exhibitions, such as "If We Are Friends" and "Lost in the Corn," reflect her fascination with the interplay of strangers and the narratives that unfold in shared spaces.
Rebecca’s artistic evolution led her to experiment with mediums like egg-tempera and watercolor, producing works that challenge traditional perspectives and invite viewers to engage with her subjects on a deeper level.
Rebecca's artistic philosophy is rooted in the idea of connection—between people, nature, and the stories that bind us. Her recent series, "Muttisse!" showcases a playful yet poignant twist on Henri Matisse's iconic works, where dogs are interwoven into the narratives of color and form. This project not only celebrates the joy that animals bring into our lives but also serves as a platform to raise funds for local animal shelters.
Rebecca believes that art should evoke emotions and challenge perceptions. Through her work, she aims to destabilize the male gaze, inviting viewers to see the world through a lens of inclusivity and warmth. Each piece is a reflection of her journey, marked by joy, laughter, and a commitment to supporting meaningful causes.
"A good painting should be like an armchair—shouldn’t there be a dog in it?" - Rebecca Clouse
Muttisse creates vibrant art, celebrating nature, emotion, and storytelling taking inspiration from the famous Henri Matisse.
rebecca-clouse@uiowa.edu