About this episode

Edi Matsumoto discusses her journey from nursing to art and the joy of her 'Otter Therapy' series.

Edi Matsumoto is a Japan-born, California-based artist known for her realistic portraiture, whimsical sea otter creations, and a heart for healing. After nearly three decades as a nurse practitioner, she traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush, blending her love of art and caregiving into something uniquely joyful. Her "Otter Therapy" series—featuring anthropomorphized otters inspired by masterpieces, pop icons, and everyday heroes—has touched thousands with its humor, warmth, and charm. Edi holds degrees in anthropology, nursing, and a Master of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Her work has earned national and international acclaim, appearing in galleries, museums, and major art publications including Fine Art Connoisseur and American Art Collector. In 2024, she opened Edi Matsumoto Art & Design, a studio-gallery nestled in the fairytale town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Learn more here Buy her book, Otter Therapy here

People in this episode

Host: Charissa Sims

Guest: Edi Matsumoto

Topics covered

• art therapy
• portraiture
• sea otters
• healing
• creativity

Keywords

• Edi Matsumoto
• Otter Therapy
• art
• healing
• portraiture
• California
• sea otters

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Academy of Art University

Books & works: Otter Therapy

Places: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, Japan

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