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Experience the Transformative Power of Art

Meet Ellen Michel: Artist, Teacher, Art Therapist, Mentor, and Shaman.

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Ellen Michel is a renowned artist based in Heidelberg, Australia, dedicated to empowering individuals through creative self-expression. With over 40 years of experience in the Melbourne art scene, Ellen seamlessly blends her expertise in art, psychology, and shamanism to foster a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Ellen Michel Art Classes Heidelberg

“Art is not just a gift for a select few; it’s a fundamental human right.”

Ellen Michel art class Melbourne

A Journey Through Art and Education

Since 1979, Ellen has been at the forefront of combining art and education.

Trained as a tonal realist painter specializing in oils, Ellen has held five solo exhibitions and received numerous accolades for her work. Her passion lies in teaching others to embrace their creativity, believing that everyone has the right to create art.

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Ellen’s approach to painting is organic and intuitive. She views herself as a conduit for universal truths, drawing inspiration from ancient practices and the profound connection between art and humanity. Each brushstroke is a tribute to the quest for meaning and connection in our lives.

Ellen's Students Say

oil painting Melbourne

"I was so happy when I found Ellen Michel for my painting teacher. Her enthusiastic passion for teaching and practice of oil painting makes her the perfect painting teacher. When I first came across Ellen’s website I was drawn to her vast experience in teaching and her beautiful paintings with their many styles. I was very much a beginner when I joined Ellen’s Oil Painting classes but I quickly gained confidence. With Ellen’s guidance and patience, clarity of instruction, in a step by step process, I built knowledge in all aspects of oil painting. I have no hesitation in recommending anyone who has even the faintest desire to be an oil painting artist. It’s the best thing I have ever done...."

Betty S.

Ellen's Career Highlights and Achievements

Ellen’s artistic journey is marked by significant milestones, including:

  • 2022 - Entrant for Montsalvat Portrait Prize.

  • 2019 - Artist Retreat Morocco & return to Covid Pandemic.

  • 2019 - Grampians Field Trip.

  • 2018 - Travel for painting & writing material to India, Nepal & Bhutan.

  • 2017 - Artmakers Studio Gallery studio opening & exhibition of new works of Pilbarra, Bhutan, and India.

  • 2017 - Green Lake, Wimmera Field Trip.

  • 2017 - Rome, Spain, England, and Sweden Field trip 'Where I sit in the scheme - a memory'

  • 2017 - Western Australian round trip Perth to Kalbarri 'in search of Wild Wonder Wisdom - Flora'

Extensive Portfolio of Projects

Ellen’s contributions extend beyond personal exhibitions. Her community projects, workshops, and performances reflect her commitment to art as a healing and communal experience. 

 

Some highlights include:

  • 2009-2015: Art Therapist at Able Australia, facilitating annual exhibitions.

  • 2008: Created a community mosaic wall at Austin/Repatriation Hospitals in Heidelberg.

  • 2011: Collaborative performance art with Heidelberg Primary School.

Education and Training

Ellen’s educational background is as rich as her artistic practice:

  • Diploma of Art Therapy, Ikon Institute of Victoria, 1999

  • Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Anthropology, and Art History, La Trobe University, 1992

  • Extensive mentorship under celebrated artists since 1972

Turner - Norham Castle Sunrise .jpg

Join Ellen on a Creative Journey

Ellen Michel invites you to explore your creative potential. Whether through workshops, art therapy sessions, or one-on-one mentorship, discover how art can serve as a powerful tool for personal growth and self-expression.

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