We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ken Elliott. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ken below.

Ken, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?

I vividly remember how I earned my first dollar from painting. I used to talk a lot about wanting to start painting, but I never took the first step. One day, a close friend of mine heard me talking about this dream again and again. He then made me an offer: he would buy my first finished piece of art.

His proposal sparked something in me, motivating me to finally start creating. I began by making some small pastels. I was determined to give him a piece that I felt proud of. From the very beginning, my focus was on producing something of quality rather than making money.

Even today, my approach to art remains the same. I owe a lot to Charlie for pushing me to take that leap and begin my artistic journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Ken has been in the art business for over 40 years, starting out as a picture framer in Houston. He then transitioned to working with an art restorer, followed by becoming an art dealer. About 30 years ago, he began drawing and painting himself. Over the years, he has explored various artistic mediums, but currently focuses mainly on oil and pastel.

Ken’s artworks can be found in thousands of collections, including prestigious private and public collections that feature large commissioned pieces.

His primary focus as an artist is on color, and he considers himself a colorist above all else. Ken is particularly drawn to landscapes, finding them rich with ideas and inspiration for his work.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

When I start a painting, I’m keenly aware of the centuries of artists who have depicted landscapes in countless ways. Each time I pick up my brush, it’s like embarking on a new journey of discovery and problem-solving.

The heart of painting lies in this process—it’s about creating something entirely unique that didn’t exist before. If it turns out well, it could endure for a very long time. In the short term, it’s gratifying to see my work find its place in people’s homes or public spaces.

Art endures through time. Think about it—who remembers the names of the mayors of Paris from Degas’ era? We remember Degas himself.

Artists perceive the world differently. Painters, in particular, are tuned in to the subtleties of color, form, and light, while jazz musicians have their own unique influences guiding their craft.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My main creative goal is to keep getting better at making art that’s not just pretty, but also meaningful and engaging. Many artists have focused on landscapes before me, but I believe there are limitless new ways to explore this genre. Each landscape presents unique challenges, and I’m always eager to find fresh solutions to them.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kenelliott.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kencelliott/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenelliottfineart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenelliott/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@elliottkce/videos

Image Credits
Art photos are by the artist