"Rodeo" Painting

Ellen Casalena is a realism fine artist whose work reflects a deep respect for the natural beauty and character of her subjects. An animal lover and accomplished creator across many artistic media, she values the versatility, depth of color, and extended working time of oil paints. Their slow-drying nature supports her deliberate process, with many of her works requiring upwards of 100 hours of meticulous brushwork and careful refinement. As her own toughest critic, Ellen is guided by a commitment to authenticity, and strives to portray every subject truthfully, without embellishment or artificial drama.

Born in South Africa, Ellen has spent her life immersed in the arts, with a career spanning special education through commercial design. Extensive travel and years spent living in different places have continually shaped her artistic perspective. She captures inspiration through her camera wherever she goes and now resides in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, while her two sons live nearby.