Shari Ellis Art

Shari Ellis is an artist, musician, and writer in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her vibrant illustrations and designs explore texture and color around themes of nature and beauty in everyday moments. A slice of pie on the kitchen counter, hummingbirds fluttering around flowers outside, and a living room stairway are some of the featured subjects in her work. Mystery and imagination abound in her work: a stained-glass window stands alone in a field, scattering light and color. A young girl waters garden plants, unaware that the gentle creatures watching are larger than life. In all her work, Shari aims to communicate a sense of wonder, hope, and appreciation for life’s “ordinary” gifts. 

Shari uses a variety of media for her illustrations, including watercolor, acrylics, charcoal, oils, and ink. She uses various types of paper and glue to create abstract sculptures. She explores ideas with photography. Shari finds the process of making an art piece therapeutic and contemplative, helping her distill big thoughts and feelings into a tangible and accessible form. She often gets inspiration while walking in nature. She looks for little surprises, “gifts,” such as a camouflaged moth or a brilliant flower illuminated by a streak of sunlight, to fuel the imagination. Her 3D diorama work called “Enigmatic” gleaned inspiration from nature to communicate an invisible idea.

Shari has played piano most of her life and has years of experience teaching, performing, and composing music. The visual arts are yet another way for her to use her artistic voice. She looks forward to creating more artworks inspired by nature, especially ones that excite the inner child with a sense of wonder and beauty.