Carolyn Starr Ellis

My adventure in art began at 11 years old. At school one day, the teacher asked a student to come up to the board and draw a tree. He did not draw two sticks and a circle on top, instead he drew a tree with limbs. I was fascinated that someone could do that.

See, back in the 1960’s, art was not offered in public school. I had never been exposed to its wonders. After witnessing this “miracle tree” drawing, I told my mother and the next thing I knew, I was taking oil painting lessons on Saturday mornings with other kids my age. I loved going there. After about five years, my instructor became ill and lessons were no longer offered.

The next time I was instructed in art was at the University of South Carolina where I received a degree in Art Studio. This is where I fell in love with acrylic paint as a medium and working with clay. It’s amazing how good clay feels in your hands!

Then life happened – husband and children. I became Carolyn Starr McCauley. My personal art was put on the back burner.

After the death of my husband in 1995, I changed careers and began teaching art. I went back to school and earned my masters in Creative Teaching. I received National Board Certification in teaching Art. Life was very busy again. I remarried and became Carolyn Starr Ellis. To simplify name changes, I went back to signing my work, C.A. Starr. After 20 years of teaching, I retired. Finally, I have time for my art.

This website holds many pictures of my art. I am thrilled to share them with you. Your feedback is always welcome – and of course, purchases or commissions.

You can contact me by email, phone, and mail:

cstarrellis@bellsouth.net
803-422-3051
457 East Church Street
Leesville, South Carolina 29070