Participant Spotlight on Robin Arnitz
Today, we’re sitting down with artist Robin Arnitz to talk about her experience with Seattle Restored. Learn more about how she’s fulfilling her interests in connecting to other artists and the public at the Lake City Artist Residency, and how her artistic focus explores the many layers and complexities we face in our everyday lives.
Q: Tell us about your artistic focus. where do you draw inspiration from?
My work focuses on the emotional and physical spaces women inhabit—both the ones we build around us and the inner worlds we retreat to. I paint in acrylic, weaving together realism, expressionism, and abstraction to tackle issues of womanhood and parenting.
I’m inspired by the complexities of everyday life—the quiet moments, the contradictions, and the beauty that can coexist with exhaustion or uncertainty. Much of my work draws from self-portraiture as a way to question ideas around gender, domestic life, and beauty, but I often abstract or fragment the figure so that it feels both personal and open to interpretation.
Visually, I’m drawn to layered surfaces, patterns, and small surrounding details that hint at the subject’s identity. Conceptually, I’m influenced by the feminist artists of the 1970s and by contemporary artists like Wangechi Mutu and Mickalene Thomas, who use collage and texture to reimagine representation. I also look to the emotional immediacy and tactile quality of paintings by artists like Philip Guston and the Expressionists—artists who weren’t afraid to let feeling guide form.
Q: Why did you apply for Seattle Restored? how will this opportunity help you reach your goals?
I applied to Seattle Restored because I’m interested in connection—both with other artists and with the public. So much of my work is made in solitude, so the idea of creating and sharing art in a more visible, communal space really excites me. Having a space outside my home studio allows me to experiment with how my paintings interact with people in a retail setting that’s more casual than a gallery.
I also see this as an opportunity to bridge the gap between studio practice and public engagement. I’m planning on hosting events at the space this winter. (Keep an eye out for these on the Seattle Restored Events section!) Long-term, I hope these experiences help me grow not only as a painter but also as a community-based artist who contributes to the creative life of Seattle.
Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR CONNECTION TO THE SEATTLE ART SCENE. WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES, AND WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST ABOUT CREATING ART IN SEATTLE?
I’ve been really fortunate to build deep connections within Seattle’s art community. Over the years, I’ve found a network of artists, art lovers, educators, and nonprofit leaders who genuinely support one another. My time as a member at Shift Gallery helped me grow both artistically and professionally. Teaching at places like North Seattle College, Cascadia College, and previously at Pratt Fine Arts has connected me with incredible students whose curiosity and energy always renew my own. There’s so much thoughtful, innovative art being made here.
That said, being an artist in Seattle isn’t without its challenges. My work can be difficult to sell—it’s personal, layered, and not always pretty and easily commercial—and the city’s high cost of living makes it tough to balance everything. Like many artists, I’m constantly juggling parenting, work, and studio time. It’s a hustle, but it’s one I believe in, because the creative community here makes it worth it. Seattle has a way of reminding me that art still matters—and that there are people here who believe in supporting it.
Q: Do you have any events or collaborations coming up?
My show at Shift Gallery is happening November 6-29, 2025. The Lake City Artist Residency will also be participating in Lake City Art Walk events.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to locals, what would it be?
Support local artists! Shop locally when you can—the art you find here is more meaningful, unique, and more connected to your community than anything you’ll get from a big box store. It may even be more affordable! Even if you’re not buying, go see the work that’s being made. Taking a moment to really look at visual art is such a healthy counterbalance to our fast-paced, screen-filled lives.
Also, talk to artists. I can’t speak for all artists, but I love hearing people’s reactions to our work, even when it’s critical. Those conversations and connections are what keep the creative energy in Seattle alive—they remind us that art is a shared experience.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?
The end of 2024 and all of 2025 has been a whirlwind for me with wonderful opportunities and challenging personal transitions. I’m looking forward to ending this year and starting 2026 with less busyness; I want to focus on delving deeper into making and improving my work.
ROBIN ARNITZ at Lake City Artist Residency
Address:
12325 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98125
Open hours: Window Displays (Viewable Anytime); Residency open Tuesday-Friday (visit the residency profile for specific hours)
Dates: October 3, 2025 – February 9, 2026