Biography

Ellie was born in Armstrong BC. At an early age Ellie fostered a keen interest in her natural surroundings. Ellie started school and completed her grade 12 diploma in Chase, B.C.

A limited edition silk-screened print set of 160 was completed for the 1990 Salmon Run. Shuswap Tourism purchased the 1st print of each set to present to the Federal and Provincial Ministries to hang in the parliament buildings. This design was also chosen for the 1990 Salmon Run pin at the Roderick-Haig Brown Park and has recently been issued again.

Although essential a self-taught artist Ellie Mackenzie's art education is firmly founded on intensive study courses with outreach programmes of the Emily Carr College of Art and Design. These courses require that the student work in isolation, many students do not complete the course Ms. MacKenzie not only finished the course but also respected all the deadlines for the assignments, and achieved highest grade point average for three consecutive semesters with all the tutors. The Shuswap District Art Council awarded Ellie the Marie Manson Scholarship to further her art education. During this artistic period of growth Ellie volunteered as an art teacher in School Districts #83 and #73 when time allowed.

Artists such as Daphne Odjig, Norval Morris and Leif Ostlund influenced the direction of artistic growth.

Ellie's personality and love for fluid lines in paintings influenced her to explore and develop her own dialogue. This consists of simplified animals, birds and flora that she uses extensively in her art. The particular colour schemes are a personal reflection that lends itself to the simplified designs. Although the paintings are Native influenced the particular style is recognized as a personal portrayal of Ellies'.

These paintings are intended to provoke a more contemplative look at our diminishing Canadian wildlife and perhaps inspire help to conserve what we have.

The life of a working wife and a mother has not allowed a commitment to art clubs or related events, but still actively working horses and gardening keeps Ellie's observation of nature fresh and growing. She is looking forward to artistic growth for many years to come and scenery she paints.