cynthia ellis
Cynthia Ellis, a West Australian artist, whose full time painting practice is central to the material of oil paint. The paintings are constructed with thickly textural applications of oil paint onto traditional surfaces such as stretched linen, wood and sometimes more contemporary modes such as found objects and built structures. The oil paint reflects a process relating to the particulars of material and physical interaction alluding to expressions in responses, which convey esoterical notions understood by the viewer. This visual experience of a unique individual reflection, felt by the viewer and Ellis, underlies the immediacy to the processes of the material, which extends to the natural organic changes that develop in time within the painting altering the materials initial outcome. The material of the paintings has held much confusion as to 'what is' the paintings medium.
I have been asked on numerous talks with others about the paintings material, I'm asked, is it plastic moulding, mixed media, a filler, plaster even, what gives the paintings their thickness? The bulk of the material is gained through the application of large amounts of paint, which allows the material to be built up into large mounds. The surface can be changed during the process of the paintings development and in time long after the painting is completed (see pull painting before and current image). The material itself is in part how I respond to the work; colour and bulk thereby creating my own interaction of act and react situation scenario. My painting practice is a solo act and self absorbed to a point. I also enjoy the timely process throughout the painting and at the completion of a painting, while the surface continues to change throughout the drying process. I find this an exciting aspect to the paintings development, which can be surprising and even compelling. Its as if the paint is alive and continues to grow through change and climate. I think of the material as a physical being, an extension of my body into another body as conveyed through the paint material. In this sense, the paintings are almost human. Cynthia Ellis
On this site you can visit current and previous works, which have found homes, reviews of what others have critically described Ellis' works and links to other sites. If you would like to acquire or commission a work, a personal request or query you can send an email by clicking the red word 'acquiring' located at the bottom of every page. In the event you would like to visit the studio residence advance notice is necessary.