Born in Markham, Canada, Ellen Jewett took to shaping three-dimensional forms naturally at a young age. To Ellen, sculpting has always been about life, biological narratives and cultural statements. The tedious hours of labor act as the mysterious foundation from which each of her sculptures’ personality springs forth.

In 2007 Ellen completed her post secondary education with a degree in Biological Anthropology and Art Critique from McMaster University. She had already started Creatures from El in 2005 and upon graduation plunged into it full-time.

Ellen continues to supplement her knowledge with professional courses and apprenticeships. She aspires to pursue graduate work in anthrozoology whilst maintaining her life as a studio artist.

On her fantasy creature sculptures, Ellen remarks:

“Each sculpture is handmade and painted with no more tools than fingers and a paint brush. By virtue of this primal process, each creation is unique and produced in a fluid and intuitive manner. The process begins with a handmade metal armature over which light weight clay is sculpted. The painting is done with acrylic or oil pigments and the embedded eyes are glass or acrylic. When complete the whole piece is glazed to intensify colour and strength.”

 

Jewett is available for commissions and custom work and can be reached through Etsy or email.

[via Varafel]