How did you get started and then develop your career?
Ellen Howard: I have always had a strong interest in art and was raised in a creative family – my family gatherings included musicians, artists, chefs, and cartoonists! However, it was not until my children were in elementary school that I had the chance to pursue artistic interests. I started taking art classes at a local art studio, then through the local community college, then as my passion continued to grow, I started attending workshops. I also got involved in curating exhibitions for a local museum and volunteering as one of the co-chairs for the California Art Club’s San Francisco Chapter. Now I serve as Vice President of Programs for CAC. As my interest and skills grew, opportunities to learn and meet other artists continued to expand – so now I regularly teach classes in oils and gouache and also lead plein air workshops. I am always open to trying new things and this attitude has helped me advance in my career.
To see more of Ellen’s work, visit:

