Ellen Kantro

Ellen’s path to becoming an abstract artist took many turns. Discouraged from attending art school in favor of a more academic path, she focused on her other passion: musical theatre where she was a touring stage manager for several years. After a minor injury sidelined her for a short time, she became a graphic designer which led to user interface design, product development, and life on the corporate track - culminating in a variety of creative roles as a corporate executive in a Fortune 100 company.

She successfully transitioned from the structured world of business to the vibrant and dynamic realm of abstract art. Her work exudes an unmistakable urban vibe, reflecting the dichotomy of her past and present. Ellen is known for her unconventional textures and techniques, and she often incorporates found materials into her work, lending an authentic urban grit to her pieces. Old maps, torn posters, discarded packing and construction materials, find their way into her paintings, adding elements of surprise and discovery for the viewer.

AA - Film, TV Production - New York Institute of Technology
BA - Communications - CUNY Queens College

2024 - 21st Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival, Sarasota, FL
2023 - 35th Annual Las Olas Art Fair Part II, Fort Lauderdale, FL
2023 - 35th Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts, Sarasota, FL
2023 - 20th Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival, Sarasota, FL
2022 - Mara Gallery - JUSTIFIED + ANCIENT, Sarasota, FL
2020-2022 - Art Uptown Gallery - Main Street, Sarasota, FL
2022 - Women Contemporary Artists - Group show, Ringling College of Art and Design
2022 - 34th Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts 
2022 - Anything Goes - Art Center Sarasota
2021 - WHOLENESS - 17th Annual Small Works Show - 440 Gallery - Brooklyn, NY
2021 - 32nd Annual St. Armands Art Festival, Sarasota, FL
2021 - Here Comes the Sun - Art Center Sarasota, Sarasota, FL
2021 - 18th Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival, Sarasota, FL
2021 - 33rd Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts, Sarasota, FL
2020 - Small Works Show - JCO’s Art Haus, Los Gatos, CA