Oil Painting
Sarah Ellis-Steinborner
Adelaide-based emerging artist Sarah Ellis-Steinborner is inspired by the impressionists and colourists of the past. She finds herself drawn to the beauty of nature and the emotion that she can convey through expressive brush and palette knife strokes.rnSarah is a finalist for Art to Art Unearthed art prize, 2025, and has had two solo exhibitions.
Artist Profile
Adelaide-based emerging artist Sarah Ellis-Steinborner is inspired by the impressionists and colourists of the past. She finds herself drawn to the beauty of nature and the emotion that she can convey through expressive brush and palette knife strokes. Sarah is a finalist for Art to Art Unearthed art prize, 2025, and has had two solo exhibitions.
Sarah is a South Australian artist whose work is deeply influenced by dynamic natural landscapes. Using contemporary abstract impressionistic techniques in acrylics and oils, she creates vibrant, textured pieces that capture the raw energy and ever-changing moods of the Australian environment.
Engaging in creative expression allows emotions to flow freely, bringing a sense of clarity and balance to her well-being. Each piece is guided by an emotional connection to the landscapes she depicts—whether it’s the intensity of a storm, the searing heat of the land, or the restless movement of the sea. These natural forces, constantly shifting and full of power, shape the depth and emotion within her work.
A defining feature of her artistic practice is the use of bold, expressive palette knife strokes. This technique infuses each painting with rich texture and movement, allowing the energy of the natural world to be felt as much as seen. The tactile quality of the layered paint invites viewers to connect with the landscape on a deeper level.
Through her art, Sarah strives to create an immersive experience—one that conveys the drama, beauty, and spirit of nature in a way that resonates both emotionally and visually.
Artist Interview
What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
I work with Acrylics and Oils for their lush colour and texture. Depending on the painting, I pick Acrylics for impasto pleasure or oils for a rich depth of colour that smooshes with joy.
How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
Often an image from camping, a holiday or car trip will inspire a painting, sometimes it needs to percolate and develop into an idea, sometimes its an instant need to paint. I abstract the image through impasto strokes and bright colours.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
I am a little chaotic, I paint messy and intuitively in my studio or on the back deck. I like to avoid overthinking and overworking!
Career Highlights
- Art to Art Unearthed Finalist 2025
- River holiday: resilience and grace. Exhibition Arnold Gallery, Mannum 2024
- Nature's balm: the power of being present. Exhibition Wellbeing Centre; St Andrew's Hospital 2025||PARAGRAPH_BREAK||
