Catalogue
About. Power
What we see. This work is about lobbying. We see two men giving a medal to each other. They look alike. In clothing and appearance. They are almost twins, they even share a set of Airpods. They look up as they were caught in the act.
Ellen says “Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.”
Details
- Year: 2023
- Dimensions: 45 x 63 inch / 115 x 160cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Power, Status, Competition
What we see.
In this triptych, we see two orange plastic army men action figures in active combat position, orchestrated as a threat to each other. One beside a glooming doorway, the other tilting on the edge of a dark hole in the floor.
In front of them, two competing business men in costume casted in gray plastic, seemingly aware of the military threat behind them that they instigated. In the middle, we see two business partners immortalized in a portrait. One is holding a model space rocket.
Ellen says; “Humanity is at the mercy of a few ego-driven men.”
Details
- Year: 2024
- Dimensions: triptych, each 55 x 67 inch / 140 x 170cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: reserved for museum
About. Material wealth
What we see. Three men gathered around a hole in the floor. The man standing on a chair has made his fortune. He is dressed in a golden jacket and shows his golden watch. The man with the virtual reality glasses is kneeling as being a sort of servant. The man in shorts is pitching to participate, jealousy looking at the man’s golden watch.
Ellen says “We Are All Gonna Make It.”
Details
- Year: 2023
- Dimensions: 55 x 67 inch / 140 x 170cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Digital debt.
This work refers to the hype and speculation of NFT’s. The emphasis lies on the speculative nature of ownership.
This painting is about the owner of the cat, ‘mommy’, and not so much about the cat.
What we see. This cat has been transformed into an NFT by its owner, with the intention to be sold. Signified by the Raging Bull, a Wall Street symbol of speculation and wealth accumulation.
The cat is portrayed wearing gloves referring to the owner wanting to accumulate wealth without having to do the ‘dirty’ hard work of labor.
Ellen says “This is not a happy cat.”
Details
- Year: 2022
- Dimensions: 70 x 55 inch / 200 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Material wealth.
This work is about the power of speculation, specifically that of crypto coin trading.
What we see. We see a business man with a bolo tie on a mechanical bull with a miners headlamp. Relaxed, powerful, just like a cowboy on a horse. The mechanical bull is his means to power, control and wealth.
Ellen says “The mechanical bull refers to Wall Street: a man-made financial construct that essentially provides no value, other than a method for rapid wealth accumulation through speculation.”
Details
- Year: 2021
- Dimensions: 78 x 55 inch / 200 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Status.
This work is about pride and independence.
What we see. We see a successful business woman, wearing a medal and pearl necklace. The dog and woman form a unity and share similarities. In shape, color and personality.
She’s wearing a corset. Though not firmly tied together, the woman gently holds its lace to signify a sense of control and sensuality.
The dog is a Dogo Argentino; loving but a street fighter. The position of the dog, in front of the woman, symbolizes the protective nature of the breed.
Ellen says “I wanted the dog and its owner to almost transcend in each other.”
Details
- Year: 2022
- Dimensions: 75 x 51 inch / 200 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Digital debt. Power.
This work addresses wealth accumulation through crypto mining. This painting is about the inequality between the rich and poor, caused by the digital divide.
What we see. We see a daunting black doorway to a data center. Symbolizing the internet as modern way to make a living. One character is a crypto miner in a suit ready to go down the mine. The other is a businessman, portrayed in an almost vacation type outfit. Awaiting his passive profits, with an hint of arrogance.
Ellen says “The seated man symbolizes the wealthy speculant. No real effort, wearing gloves to keep his hands clean.”
Details
- Year: 2021
- Dimensions: 78 x 55 inch / 200 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Power. Material wealth.
What we see. This work addresses the never ending thirst for more.
We see a proud and powerful woman holding a majorette baton that signifies her leading position. Her big belt-buckle shows a silver dollar that symbolizes the business she is in. The baton is decorated with a pearl necklace, symbolizing her goal of abundant wealth.
Ellen says “Pearls are a girl’s best friend, or not really?”
Details
- Year: 2021
- Dimensions: 59 x 49 inch / 150 x 100 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Status.
What we see. This work was created during the Trump presidency, when being a patriot was a hot topic of discussion.
We see a veteran, showing his World War II accolades.
Ellen says “Those who served are the true patriots.”
Details
- Year: 2021
- Dimensions: 19 x 15 inch / 50 x 40 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Material wealth. Status.
What we see. We see an affluent women conforming to the conventions of her social peers. She is wearing a corset and is holding a medal of achievement in her hands. Her dog is her true friend and protector. Just like his owner he is also wearing a necklace, part of his leash.
Ellen says
“Both are restricted.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 62 x 43 inch / 157 x 109 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Generational heritage.
What we see. We see a young girl, dressing up like her mother.
This work is part of a diptych together with ‘4th Generation Bill’
Ellen says “This is beyond rescue.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.7 inch / 40 x 50 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Generational heritage. Resistance
What we see. We see a boy scout calling for justice.
This work is part of a diptych together with ‘Eve Gen-Z’
Ellen says “Kids is our hope for the future.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.7 inch / 40 x 50 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Status.
What we see. This work was created during the COVID pandemic and ridicules the convention of dressing up while working from home.
We see a bank employee ready for his Zoom call, despite still wearing his pyjamas his upper part is ready to work.
The subtly exposed belly and tie in hand, symbolize vulnerability.
Ellen says “Looking in the mirror could give a wake-up call.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 39 x 59 inch / 100 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Generational heritage. Resistance.
What we see. We see a young girl, member of the Extinction Rebellion movement.
Ellen says
“Go for it kids!”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 19.7 inch / 40 x 50 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Generational heritage.
What we see. This work is about how children are modeled and conditioned after their parents.
We see two children dressed in their parents clothes pretending to be adults. The girl wearing her mothers skirt, the boy wearing his fathers tie. They share a set of earplugs.
Ellen says
“Like parents…like children.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 47 x 70 inch / 120 x 180 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Status. Power
What we see. This work is about showcasing achievements and success.
We see an emotionless man in golden suit showing off his accolades and indirectly the depth of his personal net worth.
Ellen says
“Financial success won’t resolve the struggle of life.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 39 x 55 inch / 100 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Material wealth. Loss of emotion.
What we see. This work is about showing off wealth and success.
We see a professional woman showing an expensive ring worn over one of her gloves.
The golden buckle refers to her line of profession. She’s a fintech member on Wall Street. The belts over her white collar shirt refer to those worn during the Civil War.
Ellen says “Excessive wealth is useless.”
Details
- Year: 2020
- Dimensions: 39 x 55 inch / 100 x 140 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Power.
What we see. We see a dominant successful business woman guarded by her two dogs.
The composition refers to the trinity of truth, falsehood and the unknown.
Ellen says “Frankly, she’s a bull terrier herself.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 55 x 82 inch / 140 x 210 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Loss of authenticity.
What we see. A powerful lady in a leadership role taking a young and resilient woman by the hand to introduce her to the world of wealth.
The young woman cut off a piece of her hair and holds it in her hand.
This painting refers to the mythical figure of Cassandra in which she holds the gift of prophecy.
Ellen says “Denial won’t save us.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 41 x 61 inch / 105 x 155 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Global warming. Resistance.
What we see. A man standing in the heat of the sun. He suddenly realizes his way of life needs to change.
Ellen says “It is actually too late already.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 39 x 79 inch / 100 x 200 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Power
What we see. A man with a hat made out of a newspaper inspired by Napoleon, and a holster carrying papers. Information is his weapon.
This painting refers to the abundance of information (true or fake) and the power of social media.
Ellen says “The danger of fake news fuels our collective lies.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 43 x 62 inch / 110 x 160 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Global warming.
What we see. This painting refers to the threat of global warming.
We see a young professional wearing water wings. The black wing refers to mourning and regret.
Ellen says “We’re all kidding ourselves. It’s a ticking time bomb.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 43 x 59 inch / 110 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Global warming. Status. Generational heritage. Loss of authenticity. Power.
What we see. We’re seeing a successful family gathered for a family photo during apocalyptic times.
The fan symbolizes high temperatures and over-usage of energy. The bird in the cage represents imminent death. Both women have applied sun blocker to protect from the sun. Their image is most important to them. As opposed to the businessmen, whose success is all that matters.
The young obese boy represents overconsumption. His scouting badges symbolize the attempts from younger generation to save the world.
Ellen says “This displays the theatre of life.”
Details
- Year: 2019
- Dimensions: 74 x 94 inch / 190 x 240 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Global warming.
What we see. A woman holding a dead bird on a plastic balloon as a symbol of what our planet has to come.
The color and fine cloth of the woman’s dress, symbolizes the fragility of the arctic poles.
Ellen says “We’re facing an imminent disaster by the plastic party of the past.”
Details
- Year: 2018
- Dimensions: 39 x 59 inch / 100 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Global warming. Generational heritage.
What we see. This work refers to the global conditions the younger generation inherit.
We see an angry girl wearing protective gear against the effects of global warming. Her hat refers to rising sea levels and extreme weather, the mask to protect from air pollution.
Ellen says
“This is the legacy of my generation.”
Details
- Year: 2018
- Dimensions: 41 x 61 inch / 105 x 155 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Resistance
What we see. Two girls holding hands, joining rebellion against the adult way of living. The buttons and hat refer to a revolution inspired by Che Guevara.
Ellen says
“Their generation could correct the current course of action.”
Details
- Year: 2017
- Dimensions: 39 x 59 inch / 100 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Resistance
What we see. A man, dress as the anti-businessman - possibly an anarchist. His hands heavily tattooed symbolizing freedom and creativity.
Ellen says
“A wardrobe can be a political statement as well.”
Details
- Year: 2017
- Dimensions: 39 x 59 inch / 100 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Material wealth.
What we see. Two men looking anxiously at something in front of them. Could be a screen.
This painting refers to the focus of buying and selling on the stock market.
Ellen says
“To Put or call?”
Details
- Year: 2017
- Dimensions: 39 x 59 inch / 100 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Innocence
What we see. This painting refers to the loss of innocence when diving into the world of business.
We see a young girl about to step into the adult world. She cut off one hair braid, unsure about the other.
Ellen says
“Almost ready for the rat race.”
Details
- Year: 2016
- Dimensions: 59 x 47 inch / 150 x 135 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Competition. Loss of Authenticity.
What we see. This painting refers to the pressure of progressing one’s career.
We see a tired woman at the end of her day. She’s holding a bag of takeaway dinner in one hand, her high heels in the other. Her body is wrapped in barrier tape, symbolizing distance between her environment and herself.
Ellen says
“So tired of it all.”
Details
- Year: 2016
- Dimensions: 87 x 47 inch / 220 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Competition. Loss of Authenticity.
What we see.This painting refers to the difficulty to balance work and a fulfilling life.
We see a man at the end of the day at work. His jacket folded over one arm, holding a gift-wrapped rugby ball for his child in the other.
Ellen says;
“It’s all a game.”
Details
- Year: 2016
- Dimensions: 87 x 47 inch / 220 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Resistance
What we see. This painting refers to our desire to break away from the burden of conventions to free our minds, by visiting events such as Burning Man.
We see two men sitting side by side. Both are wearing conventional suits but also weird dust-glasses and boots.
Ellen says
“Every day should feel like Burning Man.”
Details
- Year: 2015
- Dimensions: 71 x 51 inch / 180 x 130 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Competition. Loss of authenticity.
What we see. This painting refers to the docile following of rules and social conventions.
We see three men standing in a row. The man in the white suit is the leader. The man in the middle is second in command, and feels powerful by controlling his dog.
Ellen says;
“We all comply to the ruling of conventions.”
Details
- Year: 2011
- Dimensions: 78 x 47 inch / 200 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Generational heritage. Resistance
What we see.
This painting refers to the pressure young children experience to succeed in our world.
We see a boy and a girl role playing to be a married couple.They dress up with objects from their parents that signify success. The girl is wearing cut off gloves that symbolizes her inner drive to resist.
Ellen says;
“Only time will tell whether the girl can keep up her resistance.”
Details
- Year: 2015
- Dimensions: 78 x 48 in / 200 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Competition. Status.
What we see. This painting refers to superficiality of friendships.
We see two women of which one is successful and celebrated. The other wants to achieve the same.
Ellen says
“Success attracts new ‘friends’. ”
Details
- Year: 2015
- Dimensions: 78 x 40 inch / 200 x 100 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Status.
What we see. This work refers to the battlefield of the financial market.
We see two men dressed in the uniform of business: suit, white collar shirt, polished shoes. Ready for the daily battle and to face fierce competition.
Ellen says;
“The winner takes it all.”
Details
- Year: 2015
- Dimensions: 78 x 43 inch / 200 x 110 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Loss of emotion.
What we see. This painting refers to the dilemma of women combining career and motherhood.
We see a business Woman holding an interactive talking baby doll closely to her heart.
Ellen says
“Freeze your eggs.”
Details
- Year: 2014
- Dimensions: 35 x 59 inch / 90 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Loss of emotion and Status
What we see. This painting refers to empty relationships. We see a business couple. She is showcasing a harness - shielding her femininity, where her husband is proud to display his Apple watch.
Ellen says
“They’re together for status and their bank account.”
Details
- Year: 2014
- Dimensions: 63 x 63 inch / 150 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Digital debt
What we see. This work is about the duality of technology: progress versus docile digital consumption.
Two boys wearing google glasses, staring into their own private virtual world. Their play is exclusively in their minds.
Ellen says
“What about the smell of grass and hiding behind bushes?!”
Details
- Year: 2014
- Dimensions: 78 x 59 inch / 200 x 150 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Status
What we see. This work refers to downfall when the ego wants to showcase possessions.
A woman sitting, staring blank into her surroundings, with one foot caught in the strap of her Louis Vuitton handbag.
Ellen says
“Status by acquiring material wealth is a pitfall.”
Details
- Year: 2014
- Dimensions: 47 x 62 inch / 120 x 160 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Material wealth. Loss of emotion.
What we see
This work is about the struggle for success and the price to pay. We’re seeing a successful businesswoman with focus. Lonely at the top, her only friend and protector is her bull-terrier.
Ellen says
“The market is a fight club.”
Details
- Year: 2013
- Dimensions: 78 x 39 inch / 200 x 100 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Digital debt.
What we see.
We’re seeing a couple wearing a first version of Google glasses. Proud to be early adopters, and advancing them from others. They’re close but detached.
Ellen says;
“Where are you?”
Details
- Year: 2013
- Dimensions: 59 x 47 inch / 150 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Loss of emotions. Competition.
What we see
We’re seeing two business women. They look similar in appearance but only share the same goal: to be seen.
The disposable plastic gloves are a recurring element in the artist’s work. Wearing them allows the characters to do anything they want, without direct contact. Thereby creating a distance between their acts and emotions..
Ellen says
“One’s image can feel as restricting as a corset.”
Details
- Year: 2012
- Dimensions: 55 x 47 inch / 140 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Generational heritage. Innocence. Status.
What we see.
We’re seeing the innocence of a son in admiration of his dominant father. The father elevated himself to emphasize his self-proclaimed status.
Ellen says “Soon he’ll be just like him.”
Details
- Year: 2013
- Dimensions: 67 x 47 inch / 170 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Status. Power.
What we see.
Here is a businessman sitting high on a throne of gold. His strive for wealth and power is like a religion to him.
This work is unique in the artist’s series, as the character’s body is almost a sketch. Deliberately transparent.
Ellen says “Getting high.”
Details
- Year: 2011
- Dimensions: 78 x 47 inch / 200 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
About. Generational heritage.
What we see
We’re seeing a mother and her son. She is proud how he already is almost like his father. Connected, well-dressed and emotionless.
She is proud of her little copy of an adult and encourages her son in using modern devices.
Ellen says “Mommy - can I play now?”
Details
- Year: 2013
- Dimensions: 55 x 39 inch / 140 x 100 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Innocence
What we see
We’re seeing two girls in school uniform, holding hands. They are expected and told to excel. No time to play.
Ellen says
“Childhood should be playing-time”
Details
- Year: 2012
- Dimensions: 67 x 47 inch / 170 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Material Wealth.
What we see
This work is about the game of money. We’re seeing three businessmen. A leader and his two assistants. Very focused. Striving for success and material wealth, but lacking meaningful connection.
Ellen says
“It’s very cold in there.”
Details
- Year: 2011
- Dimensions: 78 x 47 inch / 200 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed
About. Loss of emotions.
What we see
We’re seeing a well-off lady sitting alone at the pool. Only the shadow of her partner is visible. He’s on the phone. She probably used to like him.
Ellen says
“It’s lonely at the top.”
Details
- Year: 2011
- Dimensions: 77 x 47 inch / 195 x 120 cm
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Availability: Placed