Ego Painting

WHO IS HELEN, AKA ELLUSE, THE ARTIST? In recent years, I have focused on creating small fine art canvases celebrating the vibrant, communal experience of raves and music events. Capturing the raw energy of these gatherings feels like a natural progression in my work. I am happy to have found a path where I can create art for the sake of creating, which has been a challenge for me in the past. The rave scene feels particularly authentic, and I have felt closest to my true inner self in this scene. Staying true to my avant-garde roots, I strive to keep my creative spirit alive by avoiding monotony and occasionally venturing into uncharted territory. While I don’t want to disappoint anyone, you can expect to see experiments in which I try new techniques, styles, subjects, and topics. This exploration keeps me grounded in a world that can often feel overwhelming. I guess you could say I’m a bit of an explorer in my mind, as financial limitations prevent me from exploring physically. Why I Call Myself Elluse If you’re curious about the name “Elluse,” it is derived from the word “elusive.” It resonates with my work because my art uniquely explores the concept of conformity. I delve into how individuals, including artists, often produce work that adheres to societal standards. As Erich Fromm once said, “Most people are not even aware of their need to conform. They live under the illusion that they follow their ideas and inclinations, that they are individualists, that they have arrived at their opinions as the result of their thinking, and that it just happens that their ideas are the same as those of the majority” (The Art of Loving). Societal pressures on artists to conform are particularly frustrating. They are expected to choose a specific medium and unique style. I have resisted this pressure; creating the same things repeatedly until I die seems dull to me. “Art is not about business or making money; it is a way of living that rejects the Western societal concept of buying and discarding products. It would be better for the planet and people’s mental health if more individuals embraced their artistic potential.” – Helen Jones, aka Elluse.