Ellenvale Cottage, in its 29th year, remains steadfast in the midst of the ongoing pandemic and some losses that brought about a wind of change.
The annual Christmas party and awards ceremony of the community of artists at Ellenvale was held last 17 December. It was jam-packed with enthusiastic students from all age groups who brought their paintings for exhibition whilst also entering it as contestant artwork for the art competition.
The winners were decided through a voting system put in place where all the guests chose the best artwork for different categories. The cream of the crop was announced the same day, adding more meaning and excitement to the Christmas party.
Folk artist, Ellen Valenton, has continued this annual celebration for almost three decades now. It has brought together like-minded and ‘hearted’ people with a passion for the arts within the St. Mary’s community in Sydney and beyond.
“All other studios are gone, but it is God’s blessing and His will that Ellenvale Cottage is still here,” Ellen shared.
Though the community has lost a few of its members due to health decline and death over the past years, Ellenvale Cottage is witnessing the emergence of young people who are keen to hone their creative skills in arts. The art studio welcomed many primary and secondary school students this year.
“There are young people who are coming here and inquiring about the classes. Their parents are very supportive. The children also love me; someone even said, ‘Ellen, can you adopt me?’,” Ellen shared.
The studio has also opened its doors to people with disabilities and the working population. Ellenvale Cottage continues to be a ‘home away from home’ for people from different walks of life.
“It is a pleasure for me to teach more people because I feel happy. I don’t really get stressed as an arts instructor,” she said.
Paintings from Ellenvale Cottage’s enthusiastic students
Meanwhile, the ongoing pandemic has not wavered the mission of Ellenvale to spread the love for arts. Ellen has offered classes online and made herself available to students by being a phone call away, particularly during the lockdown. As the restrictions eased, students returned to the studio to do art in the presence of their friends and community.
Ellenvale will mark its 30th year in 2023, and one of its plans is to bring arts to older people in retirement villages and residential aged care facilities.
“If I could be of help to people, I would do it. What else would older people want in this world? Bringing arts to them could be a therapeutic experience on their end,” Ellen shared.
“It could also give them a sense of self-fulfilment as they are able to create a piece of art, and they would be pleased with it.”
Ellen is proud of this beautiful community that she leads and belongs to. She is also thankful for the support of her husband and family. Above all, and in line with the spirit of Christmas, Ellen is most grateful to God.
“Whatever God’s plan is, I’m happy to do it. I let the Lord guide me. I respect it and do my best. I thank God that He orchestrated my life.”
As long as there are people who are passionate about arts, Ellenvale will live on. It is here to stay, adapting as well to the ever-changing world.
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