The best word to describe M. Ellen Cocose’s work is “Luminous.” Her works are suffused with the mysteries ever changing quality of light. They are an exploration of refraction, reflection, diffusion and suspension, conveyed with richness and depth, and unique ambiguity. They can be described as contemplative and dynamic. Ellen began painting and drawing at the age of nine, studying art and classical piano for six years at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. She furthered her art education at internationally renowned University of Illinois after studying at a college in Florence Italy. It was at the University of Illinois that she studied Medical Illustration. Ellen then joined Columbia College in Chicago from where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
The next decade was spent in the advertising world and she managed to own her own commercial studio. Ellen never felt satisfaction in advertising, and in 1997, she decided to go back to her roots – fine art. Her unique style is a result of years of experimentation combining different media. Ellen’s inspiration comes a lifetime of travel. Her curiosity in other cultures and arts has taken her around the world to more than twenty five countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and South America. Her work is represented in galleries nationwide and has been exhibited in group and solo shows. They can be found in private and corporate collections worldwide, including San Francisco, Beverly Hills, Chicago, New York City, Boston, Calgary, Paris, London, and Seoul. Her art inspires many upcoming artists.
