Geo Rutherford is an artist and educator who transitioned into the publishing world after a career dedicated to art education. She currently serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is the Visual Arts Director at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Geo’s fascination with lakes, initially sparked by her artistic practice, gained widespread attention when she began sharing on TikTok. Her engaging videos, which delve into the science behind phenomena like unusual ice formations and drifting islands, quickly captivated a global audience. However, her account truly took off when she started her popular “Spooky Lakes” series in October of 2020. Today, she frequently receives messages from teachers and parents who appreciate her educational content that inspires kids to explore science, history and environmental causes.

Beyond "Spooky Lakes," Geo's artistic practice is centered on environmental issues related to the Great Lakes. She creates prints, artist’s books, and large-scale mixed media works that explore themes of invasiveness, impermanence, and the unseen aspects of the Great Lakes ecosystem. Geo holds a BFA from Eastern Michigan University and an MFA from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In addition to her academic role, she co-chairs the #whyyoumatter nonprofit in her spare time.

Geo currently resides on a spooky lake in Sauk City, Wisconsin, with her dog, Padfoot.