Basic Information

Name: Ellen Ellings, 6 March 1956
Place of birth: Surabaya, Indonesia
Based in: Curaçao
Discipline: Ceramic art, sculpture, and mixed-media object making

EDUCATION

master floral designer, Heerlen and Vught
Ceramist

Self-taught artistic development

Ellen developed her artistic practice through hands-on experience, experimentation, and continued independent learning. Her professional background as a master bookbinder strengthened her sensitivity to material, craft, and detail. After moving to Curaçao in 1995, she continued to deepen her practice through ceramic studies and studio-based development, while maintaining an intuitive and largely self-directed approach.
The island’s landscape and atmosphere of Curaçao became important sources of artistic inspiration. Over time, she developed an intuitive practice centered on ceramics, sculpture, and mixed-media objects.
Her inspiration comes from everyday life: what she sees, hears, and experiences. She is especially drawn to green environments and enjoys placing her work outdoors among plants and natural surroundings. Her work is guided by intuition and imagination rather than perfection; she values the handmade, imperfect quality of her objects and works from the soul.
Although her work often begins with clay, Ellen does not see material as the defining element of her practice. Her creative process may also include metal, beads, stone, and found materials. What matters most is the act of shaping an idea, giving form to imagination, and allowing the work to emerge intuitively.

EXHIBITIONS

Solo Exhibition
2012- Gallery Alma Blou

Group Exhibitions

2012- 3X Ellen
Various Open Studio Routes
Various group exhibitions
Permanent display at Gallery Alma Blou