Artist Statement
My paintings begin with a sketch inspired by travels or an object from everyday life. Light, shadow, and form catch my eye, moving between representational and abstract. I may incorporate old bits of newspaper, a paper map, or a poem to add texture and intrigue. The story unfolds along the way.
Two of my favorite quotes continue to influence my artwork:
“Light is the most important person in the room” ~ Claude Monet
“I like to work with spaces that are not occupied and yet have the mark of human presence” ~ Mike Hall
Artist Bio
Ellen was born and raised in Southern California and has been a Laguna Beach resident for over 30 years. She studied Fine Art at the University of Denver and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from the University of Southern California. Ellen pursued her artistic goals at Laguna College of Art and Design where she thrived in an environment emphasizing ‘classical traditions’ and the ‘aspect of painting as storytelling’. Ellen has exhibited with the California Art Club, City of Laguna Beach Fine Art Exhibit, Southern California Artists Association and the Catalina Island Conservancy.