East Otter Studio

Home
United States
Marion, IA
East Otter Studio

Original art for sale, classes, art tips, studio tour and traveling with a sketchbook.

04/09/2026

Our office features a home art gallery tucked into a corner, which I plan to update with additional artwork. Paintings are available for purchase.

04/05/2026

My cowgirl in a corset is leaning back against a round haybale, taking a dance break. She is catching her breath while the music still plays. Portraits still intimidate me, but I'm learning to step towards the things that scare me a little bit. I painted this in acrylic then softened her with oil and somewhere in the mix she began to tell her own story.

01/21/2026

I'm sharing about my painting on the mantle and I want to share my heart behind this:
I painted this piece during Zoom sessions with artist and her Flower Painting Club. We spent time learning the meanings behind different flowers, especially the Victorian tradition of sending messages through bouquets.

In that language:
• White‑and‑pink roses mean sweetness and sincerity
• Bleeding hearts symbolize romantic love and devotion

Put together, they make a beautiful Valentine message.
If you want a gift that speaks for you, this one does.

Message me if you’d like to claim it.

01/19/2026

A little pink, a little whimsy, and a whole lot of heart. These Valentine pieces are ready for new homes - before I talk myself into keeping the Eiffel Towers for my own wall. Message me for further details.

01/12/2026

Welcome to my studio, where I create during the winter season instead of my barn studio. The sliding glass door allows ample sunshine to pour in, and I have a dining table desk, my easel, and a coffee & tea bar. I am fully prepared!

01/02/2026

Create a Winter 2025 Vision Board by listing your dreams, gathering inspiring images and mementos, and securing them on a bulletin board to track your progress. This one is mine. Happy New year!

12/02/2025

After organizing supplies in my cozy winter studio (in the basement kitchen) my trusty sidekicks and I took a snow-filled recess. We used spray paint cans and imagined the snow as our artistic playground. Don't attempt this at home unless you have a grown-up taking pictures. Haha!

11/26/2025

As I clean and move out of my barn studio, I reflect on a fruitful season of artistic collaboration with friends Melissa Collins, Emmy Smid, Diana Sankey and her children, as well as virtual sessions with Carrie Schmitt Art and Design and her Flower Painting Club. I anticipate my return in spring 2026 and the opportunity to share new art. Melissa Collins Diana Sankey Carrie Schmitt Art and Design

11/24/2025

I spent the day crafting Christmas cards and gift tags at Lafayette Christian Church with Kimberly Noe. She shared her artistic talent with the ladies' prayer group. I was completely absorbed in creating cards from 9am to 3pm. Time flies when you're having enjoyable conversation, art time, and lunch.

10/24/2025

The joy of creating cake plus something spooktacular on canvas yesterday at MIX IT UP ART class at the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy!

10/11/2025

I feel inspired to host a live, cozy, and creative crafternoon from my studio barn soon, blending fall inspiration with faith and fun.

Address

Marion, IA
52302

Website

http://Shirleydarlandartist.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when East Otter Studio posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Establishment

Send a message to East Otter Studio:

Shortcuts

Want your establishment to be the top-listed Arts & Entertainment in Marion?