Ellen Casalena

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.

Durban College of Art, South Africa
Johannesburg College of Art, South Africa

2022 - The South African Society of Artists (SASA) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2022 - Constantiaberg Art Society (CAS) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2022 - Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) Cape Town, South Africa
2022 - Art in the Park, Constantiaberg Art Society (CAS)
2022 - Cape Town International Convention Centre (SASA)
2023 - The South African Society of Artists (SASA) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2023 - Constantiaberg Art Society (CAS) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2024 - The South African Society of Artists (SASA) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2024 - Constantiaberg Art Society (CAS) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2023/4/5 - Nood Cafe, Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa
2025 - The South African Society of Artists (SASA) Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Town.
2026 - Brookwood & Shutte Libraries WC Art Alliance, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
2026 - Washington County Oregon Open Studios (Reser Gallery)
2026 - Hillsboro Civic Center Oregon Permanent Collection Finalist (Proteas)