Ellis King is a figurative and portrait artist whose acrylic paintings explore the experiences and expectations of women in the 21st century. Born in Norwich in 1989, King studied art before going on to a career in charity marketing. In 2020, however, she returned to painting. This life path and evolution as an artist is palpable in every stroke, and her work is far from silent. Through an authentic, female-focused gaze, King's paintings encourage viewers to interrogate and challenge the world around them.
Focused predominantly on portraiture of women, King's oeuvre captures the essence of her subjects through poignant and unfiltered moments, drawn from candid conversations with those in her life. Her work transforms photographic references into fresh, honest, realised portraits, offering captivating glimpses into the distinctive stories of each subject.
King’s artistic palette is a blend of colours and styles, juxtaposing unsettling realism with bold, lucid brush strokes. Navigating the intersection of fine and modern art, King describes these marks as "graffiti." Her fun, childlike approach to painting transcends conventional boundaries — an artistic expression without limitations. Within this visual symphony, King delves into the complexities of life, culture, and adulthood, fearlessly exploring the darkness and dichotomies within.