Ellen has been a long-term DVAS President and member. With her endless work and kind heart, she has been investing her time and energy in making DVAS a vibrant and welcoming space for many years. Over the artistic career, Ellen has received multiple awards for her clay artworks. 

BIO / ARTIST STATEMENT

My love of art started in kindergarten when we were given huge easels with paper, brushes and paint in endless supply! Art, graphics and sewing were my favourite subjects throughout school and at home. I also l loved any type of craft.

After secondary school I studied at RMIT (Emily MacPherson), where I completed a Diploma of Arts in Fashion. I worked as a designer, pattern maker and dressmaker for many years.

It was at RMIT that I started Life Drawing which increased my interest in the human figure. I worked in watercolours for about 10 years until I discovered clay about 18 years ago. I am a member and President of the Diamond Valley Art Society where I was tutored by Henarde Zabenko. I have been obsessed by using clay ever since.

I have recently been creating portraits and find this such a wonderful experience for me. It is so challenging and rewarding when you see your model appearing in front of your eyes. 

I still get excited by every new block of clay I open and how I will transform it into something unique and beautiful. In contrast to my human figures I also enjoy creating animals, realistic and some comical versions.