Dogs in our studio

We often feel so lucky, to have the space and opportunity to have our furry babies at work.  It all started with Natasha, who was the sweetest German Shepherd ever… She would come every day with Barbara and sit by the door, or sit by her side as she painted her art.   People would come in and be a…

Taksan Tatutina Scoshi Store

The next chapter in our story begins after Barbara takes some time off from Tatutina.  If you missed the beginning, you can read the first chapter here. Although Barbara worked a couple of part time jobs, her love of art, painting, and creating kept bringing her back to her brushes and bright colored paints.  She couldn’t stay away. She always had…

Who is Tatutina

Since we are celebrating 30 years in business, we decided to look back and reflect on where we came from and who we are… When Barbara was 18, she moved from Argentina to Naples, Italy, and fell in love with Salvatore Florena. She also fell in love with the Amalfi Coast and began painting her naif scenes of colorful houses,…

Three Sisters

Every summer Barbara’s youngest daughter Caroline visits from Italy. They all get together at their summer home in Chatham,  Barbara has created a home  where all can get together to celebrate family! Florena Sisters Caroline~Georgia~Roberta

Sharks in Chatham

There will be shark sightings in Chatham this year. Instead of the beach you will find them in the park! Sharks created by various area artists will be moved to various locations in Chatham this summer.  Barbara and daughter Georgia, both artists and longtime summer residents, were asked to help create the public art event. It’s all in the eye…

Studio Fashion

Barbara Ottmar and her good friend Mary Hamilton, have come to the studio dressed alike on numerous occasions.  It’s a little weird, but so fun to see. Today’s style is leopard. People always ask if they plan their outfits together and the answer is always – no. Mary & Barbara  How does this happen?  Very stylish at Tatutina studio.

What’s my name

Let us consider what a name is. It is the grouping of several letters of an alphabet, or other symbols, which constitutes the distinctive designation of a person or thing. Most have meanings,, but what really distinguishes them is YOU!   Celebrate you and what’s behind your name Zoe, a Greek baby name which means, life Amy, English form of the…

No need to cook

Take out menus seem to accumulate as quickly as dust. They suddenly appear by the phone, hanging on the front of the fridge, mixed in with the pile of mail waiting to be sorted, or in the kitchen “junk” drawer. Collect your menus from all the random places they have gathered – start with the junk drawer. Throw away any…

Easter Basket

  Easter dresses and baskets have changed over the years……charming but like a bridesmaid dress…when will you use again?? Think Happy Box…. So many uses!  Easter “basket” is just one fun way to fill. Unlike the traditional basket this Happy Box will be fun for organizing, toting toys and year round treasures. Jack’s jack rabbit Fluffy floppy ears…pretty in pink…

I need a vacation with my kid

How many times have you driven past your local historic house without stopping in? Now is the time to visit all the local tourist attractions right in your community. Check with your Chamber of Commerce or tourist information center for a free list of local must-see spots.  You’ll probably learn history and fun facts you never imagined. Take photos and…