Featured Artist Ellie Ellis

Artist Ellie Ellis presents a fascinating and unusual body of work, created as plaster reliefs and inspired by antiquity. See more by visiting her website.

 

 

My artistic journey began in theater set design and costuming. It eventually led me to the decorative arts, with a focus on trompe l’oeil murals, faux finishing, and custom stenciling. With multiple degrees and certificates in the art industry, I have honed my craft to create stunning 3D wall sculptures in plaster. They are inspired by nature, fantasy and all things beautiful.

 

 

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for my work, including first place at the Concrete Decor Show and multiple wins in online competitions. My medium of choice is plaster. I create 3D wall sculptures that range from realistic and modern to botanical and fantastical themes.

 

 

Some of my favorite projects include a giant pinecone for The Silver Pines Restaurant in Flagstaff, Arizona, a majestic rose relief for an event venue in Atlanta, Georgia, and an intricate medieval village fireplace for a private residence in Portland, Oregon.

 

 

Living in The Netherlands for seven years and traveling throughout Europe while working in the theater, allowed me to see plaster reliefs everywhere, mostly ancient ones. When I transitioned into decorative arts, I struggled to find someone to teach me how to create in relief. It was not popular at the time, and there were no instructional books available. I taught myself through experimentation, learning from trial and error. Now, after 20+ years, my vision and desire is to teach others so that we have more reliefs to gaze upon and appreciate.

 

 

During the COVID pandemic, I created an online academy to continue sharing my passion. I now teach online classes, including an introductory course and a year-long, university quality program.

 

 

Recently, I moved my art studio to Arizona to be closer to my two daughters and four grandchildren. This move has filled me with renewed inspiration, drawn from the stunning beauty of Arizona.

 

 

My mission is to see more beautiful reliefs created in the USA. Many people in the country have never even seen a plaster relief, and most artists have never attempted this art form. I want to teach and encourage others to explore this beautiful medium, while dispelling the mystery and fear that often surrounds it.

 

 

Plaster relief is not just an art form for me.  It’s a passion that I am eager to share with others, ensuring this timeless craft continues to flourish.

 

Ellie Ellis invites you to follow on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Pinterest.

 

 

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