Sally Ellis is a contemporary artist and teacher whose work she defines as abstract familiarity - a distinctive blend of simplicity, suggestion, and expressive mark-making that captures the essence of everyday life without rigid representation.
Working primarily in acrylic on wooden panels, her process is instinctive and tactile: layering, scraping, and scratching the surface to reveal depth and quiet beauty. Her approach embraces imperfection and spontaneity, allowing the artwork to emerge naturally, without overworking or control.
With over four decades of creative practice, Sally brings deep insight into the transformative power of art. Her focus extends beyond technique; she creates space for reflection, connection, and a renewed sense of self through the act of making. Her workshops are known for their warmth and energy - inviting women to step away from the demands of everyday life, reconnect with their creative instincts, and explore without judgement or pressure.
Sally teaches that there is no “wrong” in the process - only discovery. With her guidance, participants are encouraged to let go of perfectionism, respond to what’s in front of them, and trust that something beautiful will come through.
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Forthcoming Art Retreat
I’m so excited to invite you to join me for a very special art retreat in beautiful Puglia, Italy. We’ll be staying at the gorgeous Masseria Specula — a truly peaceful place surrounded by olive groves, sunshine and big open skies. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, breathe and lose yourself in the joy of painting.
This week is about making space for you — your creativity, your curiosity, your happiness. No pressure, no perfection, just exploring, experimenting and painting from the heart. We’ll wander, notice, sketch, splash some paint around, eat the most delicious local food and soak up everything this beautiful part of the world has to offer. Whether you're just starting out or you've been painting for years, you are so welcome. Come as you are — messy, curious, ready to play — and let's create something wonderful together under the Puglian sun.
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