Rõstrum: Echoes of Avian Life
Rōstrum is a series of large scale paintings that examines the politics of displacement through the symbolic lens of avian life. The work explores the tension between the freedom of movement and the precarity of existence, drawing parallels between the transient life of birds and the systemic challenges of housing instability. Each piece is built through a physical process of construction and excavation, creating a topography of resilience on the canvas.
Discover Rõstrum
Rōstrum Reframed is a strategic experiment in connecting art directly with new audiences. Building on the acclaimed Rōstrum series of large scale avian paintings, this project explores how work on displacement and resilience functions within a nontraditional context, testing the intersection of fine art and community wellness. The one night pop up installation and reception takes place in November 2025.
The original Rōstrum series examines the politics of displacement through the symbolic lens of avian life, creating a topography of resilience on the canvas.
Project History
Rōstrum Reframed, My Massage Studios, Kansas City, MO (Upcoming November 2025)
The Arts Asylum, Kansas City, MO (2024-2025)
Pendleton Arts Block, Kansas City, MO (2024)
Inquiries
Works from the Rōstrum series are available for acquisition. For pricing, a private viewing, or a collections inquiry, please use the contact page.
The Civic Investment Model
The Rōstrum series is a core component of the Montoute Arts civic investment model. A portion of all sales from this body of work is directly reinvested into our strategic partner, reStart Inc., providing a sustainable revenue stream to support their mission of ending homelessness in Kansas City. This partnership is a clear demonstration of our thesis that a robust cultural enterprise can and should be an engine for direct community investment.
