Small Business Spotlight: Ellen Schuster
Q: When did you develop a love for painting?
I have ALWAYS been drawn to beauty especially in the form of color and texture. My undergraduate degree is interior design and I minored in art history. It wasn’t until my husband and I moved to New York City in our 40s where I had an epiphany that I truly did not know who I really was... I began enrolling in every art class I could find. The Art Students League was only a few blocks from my apartment. I had no idea at the time that this is where some of the most iconic abstract expressionists also initially picked up paint brushes. I continue to regularly seek learning with various classes and mentors in NYC, Texas, California and even in Europe. One word that sums up my artistic endeavor is experimentation and to effectively experiment, it helps to continue to push myself to observe and explore different techniques and mediums.
Q: What materials do you use in your work?
Paints, canvas, paper, etc? I typically work with acrylic and canvas. But I also love watercolor and encaustic. I am dying to spend time painting on both wood panels and yupo.
Q: From where do you draw your inspiration?
Nature really inspires me, especially flowers... As well as, I’m deeply inspired by the privilege of adding beauty into someone’s home or every day life!
Q: Playing with colors and textures excites us when designing jewelry. What excites you when painting?
Actually--the SAME--maybe that is how we found each other! Colors and textures ignite me.
Q: Any business leaders or artists that inspire or influence you and your brand?
Recently my daughter and I binge watched Restored by the Fords. And I was deeply inspired and motivated by Leanne’s ability to add gorgeous architectural accents, oversize lighting and old vintage doors while restoring as many original materials as possible. It was surprisingly and deeply inspirational to see her eye for beauty transform spaces! I typically use much more color in my art but I am celebrating what a true artist she is! It feels deeply spiritual to see beauty transform and she has a gift!
Q: What can we look forward to seeing from your brand in the near future?
I’ll be releasing a chinoiserie collection soon. However, my heart is consumed with my youngest daughter’s wedding on West Coast and second grandchild to be born on the East Coast both just a few days apart in October.