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“Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks.” – Yo-Yo Ma
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Welcome! I’m Linda Samuels, a mixed media abstract artist, writer and lifelong creative, making art and finding inspiration from my home in Kingston, Ontario.
I grew up in Montréal, Québec, where art seemed to spill from every street corner, café, library and restaurant. It was impossible not to fall under the spell of the city’s creative energy.
Over the years, my love of creating has taken many forms, from painting and design to writing and exploring the connection between art and well-being. What began as a place to share my artwork has grown into something that embraces creativity in all its beautiful forms.
Ellèsse is no longer just about the art I make. It’s about the art of living.
WHO IS ELLÈSSE??
When I first picked up a paintbrush—what feels like a century ago—I signed my work Linda Samuels. It’s my name, after all. But over time, I decided I wanted something a little shorter.
I tried L. Samuels, but that felt… well, a little too initially awkward.
Then I came across the story of French artist Romain de Tirtoff, better known as Erté, a name inspired by the French pronunciation of his initials, R.T.
How cool is that?
And just like that, Ellèsse was born. My own initials, L.S., with a little French flair. A perfect fit for this Montréal girl.
WHAT INSPIRES ME
Creativity runs deep in my family. I’m a proud non-status Algonquin descendant, with artists, carvers and musicians woven into my family history.
My great-grandfather, Arthur Sauvé, was a folk and tramp artist whose work left a remarkable legacy. Some of his pieces are held by the Canadian Museum of History, and one of his many carvings, a crucifix, is held in the Vatican.
I like to think a little of that creative spirit found its way to me.
My inspiration comes from life itself—the beautiful moments, the difficult chapters, and everything in between. Sometimes it comes from places I’d rather not revisit, but I’ve learned that even the uncomfortable emotions have something to offer.
Painting gives me a way to explore those feelings without needing to explain them. I can let go, experiment, make a glorious mess, and see what emerges.
For me, creativity isn't just about making something beautiful. It's about finding something meaningful along the way.
LET’S CONNECT
LET’S CONNECT
Have a question about my artwork, my books, or anything you’ve discovered here? Or maybe you’d just like to say hello.
I’d love to hear from you.
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