Beth Ellis

A lovely house overlooks the Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine. On the lawn there's a sign that reads: Dreams really do come true. As I walk by carrying my backpack and easel, I smile because I have found that saying to be so true!

Becoming a plein air painter was not so much a decision as a 'stepping into'. At age twelve Beth was introduced to the painters in Perkins Cove, then an active art colony in Ogunquit. While she watched the painters with fascination, the seeds of her artistic talents were being planted for her future.

After graduating from Paier College of Art in Connecticut, Beth had a satisfying career as a designer and illustrator. During those early years, N.C. Wyeth captured her illustrator’s soul while Andrew Wyeth captured her heart. Among the many masters that she has valued, Beth found herself deeply drawn to the work of Winslow Homer. His passion for the sea and his compelling use of color greatly inspired her. More recently, significant creative mentors such as Kathleen Humpage, Charles Sovek and Ed Hicks have played active roles in her artistic development.

A dedicated plein air artist, Beth paints outdoors year-round. Throughout the summer, you’ll find her painting along Maine's alluring coast and occasionally teaching the engaging art of plein air (open air) painting to a group of enthusiastic students. When at home in Connecticut, rolling farmlands and tranquil Connecticut River sites are her favorite subjects.

Today, Beth has a successful gallery at Perkins Cove where she has exhibited paintings of rural and coastal New England for four years. Her works in oil can also be found in private and public collections from coast to coast and are on display in a number of Northeast galleries. During the warmer months, Beth exhibits in select and prestigious outdoor-juried shows such as the Bruce Museum Show in Greenwich, CT and the Armonk Outdoor Art Show in Armonk, NY. Although she has received many awards at these shows and others, Beth agrees that her real satisfaction comes from seeing the pleasure others receive in viewing her work.

People often tell me that I’m lucky to have this special talent. There was a time in my life that I might have argued that point because of the amount of hard work that went into strengthening my artistic career. But today I smile and agree. I feel very fortunate to be doing something that I love so deeply and, I also believe that with resolve and perseverance dreams really do come true!