Joe Ott is a graduate of Kent State University, currently living in West Akron with his best friend and dog, River. He works at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens as the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, where he also uses his artistic talents to create exhibitions throughout the Estate—most notably, two permanent garden sculptures and the 2019 Fused exhibition.  

Ott is a self-taught multimedia artist specializing in fine wood, chainsaw, and metal sculptures. Beyond sculpting, Ott dabbles in watercolor, woodburning, woodworking, and acrylic paint. As a passionate animal advocate and vegan, much of the proceeds from his artwork are donated to support local animal welfare groups and he finds much of his inspiration from animals and nature. Ott creates commissioned work and can be contacted through his website at www.joeottart.com.