Born in Ontario, Ellen moved to British Columbia in 1992. She studied studio art and art history at the University of Guelph and has taken a wide range of art workshops and classes. She has been exhibiting her work in group shows throughout the past ten years. During the last several years she dedicated herself to raising her young children, but now has returned to painting full time. Her work has been purchased by collectors in Canada and the United States.

"All my work is inspired by something real that I've come in contact with, whether it be places I've been to or people I know. I'm attracted to the underlying sense of mystery in all things. Rich colour and high contrast are common elements throughout most of my pieces. Whether I'm painting a portrait, landscape or a semi-abstract piece, I want my paintings to convey a strong sense of drama.

Although I predominantly paint with oil or acrylic, I've been increasingly adding collage elements to my paintings. Torn images from magazines, vintage fabrics and gold leaf had begun making their way into my artwork. I love creating paintings that are textural and tactile. I find it an antidote for the bombardment of the thousands of flat images, both electronic and printed, that surround us everyday. A day working in my studio, getting messy, having the experience of creating with my hands is meditative and incredibly rewarding."

NEWS:

Solo Exhibit
Mission Leisure Centre Gallery
September 28th - October 26th