ellen brandson art: The Expressive power of line
A Solo Exhibition by Ellen Brandson
september 18th – 27th, 2026
The Ladysmith Gallery is pleased to present Lines of Inquiry, a new solo exhibition by Ladysmith-based abstract expressionist painter Ellen Brandson, opening Friday, September 18, 2026.
In this latest body of work, Ellen turns her attention to the expressive power of line. Each painting begins with the spontaneous act of making marks, then evolves through an intuitive dialogue between artist and surface. The exhibition explores both the physical act of creating lines and the deeper question of why they emerge, inviting viewers into a process of discovery, emotion, and reflection.
Working primarily on large cradled wood panels, Ellen embraces the unique qualities of wood. She layers paint, scrapes, gouges, and sands the surface, allowing previous layers and the natural grain of the wood to remain visible which creates rich textures.
For Lines of Inquiry, Ellen also embraces an unexpected shift in colour. Long avoiding pink in both her life and her work, she allowed it into her paintings without hesitation or restraint. Paired with vibrant orange, the result is a lush, dynamic, and surprisingly sensual palette that adds new emotional depth to the exhibition while remaining true to her distinctive visual language.
Music remains a constant source of inspiration, influencing the rhythm and movement found throughout Ellen’s paintings. Her work has been featured in numerous juried exhibitions and solo shows and has earned recognition for its bold energy, layered surfaces, and deeply personal visual language.
Lines of Inquiry offers an engaging look into Ellen’s evolving practice.
Meet the artist
Ellen will be onsite daily demoing abstract expressionist painting. Experience the artist painting live!
September 18 – 27, 2026. 10 AM – 4 PM
-Unit 7 – 32 High St. Ladysmith BC
Questions, email gallery@ladysmitharts.ca or call 604-880-4291
This exhibition runs from March 20 – 29, 10 AM – 4 PM daily at the Ladysmith Gallery – Unit 7 -32 High Street, Ladysmith BC. Meet the artists for a art preview on Saturday March 21 and enjoy light refreshments as you enjoy the show.
