Teddy-Bears.Org : Teddy Bear Artist Bears in the Gruff by Betsy Reum

Bears in the Gruff by Betsy Reum

Betsy Reum (pronounced reem) is an award winning American teddy bear artist designing bears since 1986. She is internationally recognized for her quality constructed bears with attention to creative detail. Her work has appeared in numerous books and magazines in the United States and abroad. She was a 1997 winner of the Golden Teddy Award and a nominee in 1999 and 2001. Betsy's work was also featured with "Nicole" on the cover of Teddy Bear and Friends as seen here!

As a graduate of Michigan State University in Clothing & Textiles, Betsy has always had a keen interest in design and needlework. Sewing has been a lifelong activity since she began stitching her first doll clothes at the age of nine. Early doll collecting was replaced by teddy bears after the birth of her three sons, first as a collector then as a designer. A fascination with antiques, Victorian arts, history and gardening has a distinct influence on Betsy Reum's teddy bear designs.

Betsy's garden is a place for rejuvenation of the creative spirit as well as a respite from teddy bear production . As an Advanced Master Gardener, she donates time to community garden work and continuing horticulture education. Her hard work was recognized when her garden was on the Greater Lansing (Michigan) Garden Tour in June 2004. Designing is her passion whether it is in the garden or her teddy bear studio.

The emergence of teddy bears as an art form has been for Betsy a culmination of vocation, technical training and creative fulfillment. It is hoped that you will enjoy these examples of her creative achievements.