Ellen Stapleton 12/2/25 Ellen Stapleton 12/2/25

BALI, ART & FRIENDSHIPS

I still remember my first trip to Bali, 25 years ago. I have some vivid memories from that trip, but the one that has stayed with me most is being mesmerised as I stood before a beautiful painting of a Garuda in a museum.

I don’t know who the artist was or which museum it was, but I remember the painting so clearly — the colours, the shading, the highlights, and the intricate detail of the wings.

This was around the time I first really started exploring my art and filling sketchbooks with drawings.

I think that painting influenced me subconsciously — even today, when I look at my own style, I see echoes of that same attention to detail, and the way I paint shading, highlights, and outlines.

Fast forward 25 years, and I returned to Bali — this time for a very different reason: to finally meet my talented friend from Argentina, Cat D’Alessandro.

We’ve been friends online for years, inspired by each other’s work and cheering each other on, always talked about meeting up someday.

Fortunately, she happened to be on my side of the world, working at Karma House tattoo studio in Ubud.

Not knowing when we’d have another chance to meet, I seized the oportunity, booked my flight, and spent 10 unforgettable days in Ubud.

The creative energy in Bali is undeniable. In just 10 days, I immersed myself in so much creativity:

✨ I spent an afternoon learning stone carving with the incredible artist @jun_thepran at his small outdoor studio among the rice fields on the outskirts of Ubud.

He is very talented and experienced, and it was inspiring to see his dedication to keeping the tradition of stone carving alive in Bali.

✨ I took part in an offering workshop, where I was warmly welcomed into the home of two local women to create offerings for their family shrine. It was a beautiful experience creating alongside them, and learning the symbolism and intention behind these meaningful offerings and healing rituals.

✨ I had an inspiring visit to the Puri Lukisan Museum, where I saw many incredible traditional artworks — including several that reminded me of the Garuda that had inspired me all those years ago.

✨ Inspired by what I’d seen, I took a Miniature Keliki traditional painting class, learning the process and techniques behind these beautiful paintings.

✨ More highlights include joining a handpan workshop, enjoying a beautiful flower bath, and attending the mesmerising Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple.

Bali is full of inspiration — but at times, it was also chaotic.

The constant energy of construction, traffic, and bustling streets reminded me how busy the world can be, but I also found moments of stillness, reflection, and creative flow.

On this trip, I felt my creative journey come full circle. The Garuda painting I’d admired as a teenager still spoke to me, and I left feeling inspired, connected, and ready to bring all of that energy into my own work.

Bali reminded me why I fell in love with art in the first place: the colours, the stories, the culture, and the people who pour themselves into creation every day.

It was an unforgettable 10 days, and I can’t wait to see how this inspiration continues to shape my art.

Ellen Stapleton 10/28/25 Ellen Stapleton 10/28/25

MY BUDDHIST ART JOURNEY

I have had a love of Buddhist artwork for as long as I can remember.

There’s something about the intricate designs, colours, and stylised imagery—and the way compassionate Buddhist teachings are woven into every detail—that speaks directly to my soul.

For the past 12 years, I have studied Buddhist art with incredible teachers, deepening my understanding and connection to this rich tradition.

Recently, I returned to Chenrezig Institute on the Sunshine Coast, Australia—a place I’ve visited many times to learn, recharge, create art, and connect with its beautiful community of kind, interesting people from all over the world.

I had the special privilege of spending four days helping to restore the sacred stupas in the Garden of Enlightenment in preparation for the ‘Big Love Festival’.

This work required a lot of determination, patience, and dexterity. Climbing around these structures, making sure not to fall, while also focusing on creating high quality painting - was definitely a very challenging experience, but also an enjoyable and satisfying one.

Stupas are more than beautiful structures—they are ancient symbols of peace, wisdom, and the awakened mind. Each one holds sacred relics and represents the path to enlightenment.

While painting, I reflected on the Buddhist idea of merit: and how contributing to the restoration of the stupas was not just a creative act, but a form of meditation and devotion that cultivates compassion, mindfulness, and positive karma.

I feel deeply grateful for this opportunity to contribute to something so meaningful. 🙏❤️

Recently, I also had the rare privilege of learning from master Thangka artist Phenpo Tendhar, a ninth-generation painter from one of Tibet’s most respected artistic lineages.

The workshop explored the sacred image of Goddess Tara, one of the most beloved figures in the Buddhist tradition.

Revered as the embodiment of compassion, wisdom, and swift action, Tara is often called upon as a liberator, guiding beings through obstacles and fears.

I spent the first day of this workshop completing my drawing of Green Tara, and the second day making some great progress on painting her.

I still have many hours of work left to complete this painting but hopefully will have the change to complete it soon. I will share updates on my instagram once I do.

Ellen Stapleton 10/14/25 Ellen Stapleton 10/14/25

HONOURED & INSPIRED

I am so happy to receive this stunning canvas print from my inspiring friend, Tamara Armstrong.

The original of this artwork was part of her incredible Women of Colour series — a selection of beautiful and vibrant portraits celebrating 12 Australian women who have inspired her.

I feel so honoured to be included among those women, and I’m blown away by the beauty of this piece.

I love the way she chose to represent me with the vibrant tropical flowers, and I love the detail and colour selection. The print quality is amazing, and I’m so grateful to have it in my home.

This print is a daily reminder of the importance of creativity, inspiration, and the power of connection and support between artists, as well as a special memory of a inspiring time in my life.

The image below shows the original painting, exhibited at Left Bank Gallery, at Tamara’a ‘Women of Colour’ Gala Opening Night Event.

Ellen Stapleton 5/29/19 Ellen Stapleton 5/29/19

BIG CHANGES!

After almost two years of having a retail space at Vend, it’s time to close my shop to make space for an exciting new creative direction.

This chapter has been a meaningful part of my journey.

In recent years, my goal has been to bring my art into the world in more affordable ways – through retail, wholesale, and markets.

I wanted my art to be more accessible, so people who might not invest in an original painting could still enjoy and connect with my work.

I’ve had so much fun creating a collection of products like affirmation cards, journals, notepads, tapestries, stickers, and yoga mat towels.

Seeing my creations out in the world, as part of your everyday lives, has been incredibly rewarding – whether it’s stickers on your cars and laptops, or pulling an affirmation card as part of your daily self-care rituals.

It’s so satisfying to feel my creations have a happy, full life of their own with you – my amazing customers – once they leave my studio.

At the end of the day though, I am an artist, not a business or saleswoman. With only so many hours in each day, time and energy spent on one thing means other areas of my creative practice get put on hold.

This chapter has reminded me how important it is to follow the spark of inspiration, to create in ways that feel alive and exciting, and aligned with what feels most meaningful to me.

So it’s time to take a step back and redirect my energy toward a new and big passion project that has been a seed of an idea for years!

This closing isn’t an ending, but a stepping stone toward new opportunities, fresh ideas, and an exciting creative direction.

A huge thank you to everyone who visited, supported my work, and to the inspiring creatives I’ve met along the way – and of course, to Vend for having me!

Thank you, as always, for your support and for following along on my creative journey.

I can’t wait to share what’s next with you soon!