Artist’s Statement

My work explores the symbiotic meeting of elements such as fiber and paint, thread and metal. It is a constant search for the point where mixed media melds into objects that transcend traditional ideas of quilting, basketry, and fine art or craft.

I often turn to the tradition of painting and drawing as a way to develop my ideas. My use of color is usually vibrant and bold. I find that the patterns and colors in the world around me provide a wealth of ideas for expression. The objects I create reflect on the world as I experience it - alive and vibrant with an ever changing juxtaposition between the natural and the manmade. They are a vehicle for the viewer to see the world through my eyes.  

Bio

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Ellenina grew up sketching in charcoal and pencil with her father, an accomplished illustrator, and doing crafts and needlework projects with her mother. She enjoyed experimenting in media and gradually explored the use of everything from finger paints and pastels to water colors and wax. Finally, Ellenina discovered the joy of blending her fascination with pattern and color using fabrics, thread, ink, paper and paint.

Ellenina’s art is characterized by her vibrant use of color and pattern.  Her work is a unique mixture of media that often combines her skills in quilting, basketry, painting and drawing. The presence of natural elements and female forms predominate in her recent work.  Ellenina’s desire is to portray a woman’s inner strength and beauty and create imagery that gives voice to her perception of the world. A feeling of vibrancy, introspection and respect for nature are also conveyed in her work.

She continues to pursue formal art training at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. Ellenina has had her work shown in a number of group shows in Southern California and has created several commissioned works for private collections. She currently resides in Thousand Oaks, California.