Her travels took her to Tahiti in 1924 and Europe in 1925, studying at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris with her sister Margaret Bruton.

[1]: 33  In 1929, she left commercial art to focus on painting and joined her mother and sister Margaret in Taos, New Mexico, where she created significant works inspired by the local culture.

She was an active member of the California Society of Etchers and continued her involvement with the San Francisco Art Association.

The Bruton sisters utilized a unique technique, carving the design into masonite panels to create a bas-relief effect, allowing for depth and shadow play when illuminated.

Although not personally acquainted with Hawaii, Esther infused her work with the tropical ambiance gleaned from her visit to Tahiti.

In addition to her work for Dole, Esther contributed to the California-Hawaiian Sugar Company's marketing efforts.

She illustrated a booklet entitled "Behind Your Sugar Bowl" and was responsible for the design of murals in the company's San Francisco office in the Matson Building.