About the Artist

Mary Jo Ellis is a self-taught painter who began experimenting with oil painting in late 2011.  Since then, she has enrolled in a number of online classes, attended workshops from nationally-known artists, and frequently paints from life and the great outdoors.  

"I began painting as a meditative exercise," she said.  "I realized that art does powerful things for our spirit.  The art of self-expression, which is what painting is for me, is a powerful tool I use to interpret how I see  the world around me.  My goal as an artist is not to faithfully duplicate my environment in a painting, but to show the viewer how I feel about the things around me.

"I began painting in several years ago by enrolling in classes at a local art school.  I had to learn from the very beginning, because I had never painted with oils.  I learned the importance of drawing, composition and values and I hope my work continues to improve in these areas.  I think it is a life-struggle for many artists.

"I am particularly interested in art with architectural elements.  Lately I have been experimenting with painting interiors and nocturnes as a way to learn to convey a sense of place.  I will never stop learning how to paint, no matter how long I live."

2nd Place Winner:  Go Paint!  Chippewa Valley 2017