JAZZ BUND (2021) Painting by Elena Mclaren

Elena is an internationally exhibited artist, with works showcased at renowned platforms such as Saatchi Art and Artmajeur. She has been a member of the Eurasian Art Union since 2021 and the Professional Artists of Russia since 2019. Her distinctive artistic approach lies in the fusion of opposites—both in material and technique. Using natural silk, a material historically associated with luxury and exclusivity, and the traditional batik method, Elena contrasts these symbols of wealth with themes of poverty, isolation, and grief. This juxtaposition introduces a layer of artistic irony, adding depth and complexity to her pieces.

Graduating from Salford University, Elena continued her artistic research and experimentation, while also teaching painting and life drawing. Her mastery of batik, both in its hot and cold techniques, extends beyond her own work, as she also gives lessons and masterclasses in this historic medium. Batik, once a privilege of the Javanese royal courts and now emblematic in luxury fashion (such as Hermes scarves), holds a deep cultural significance, which Elena recon textualizes in her modern, thought-provoking works.

Additionally, Elena holds certificates in art therapy and colour therapy, allowing her to use art not only for self-expression but also as a healing tool. Her unique perspective, blending architectural education with in-depth knowledge of visual arts, makes her works stand out. Elena's batik creations captivate both art experts and the general public

In 2021, she was awarded second and third place in the International Competition at the Russian Art Week, marking another significant achievement in her career. Elena’s practice is an exploration of the paradoxes in life, with a creative focus on the tension between wealth and need, grandeur and simplicity—an artistic dialogue that is more relevant than ever in today's world.
Education

 Salford University, Salford UK :- Visual Arts BA(Hons.)

 Mancat (Manchester College), Manchester UK:-Foundation Course Visual Art

 Moscow University, Moscow Russia:-Domestic and Industrial Architecture

 Moscow Technology College, Moscow Russia

Exhibitions

Elena’s works have been included in the following recent exhibitions:-

2008 Emerging Artists Series, group exhibition.

2009 Cow Gallery Manchester, Painting and Sculpture.

2009 Macerate Art Academy Italy, ‘ Terra Crutta-Terra Cotta’, Painting and Sculpture.

2010 Suseum, ‘Narrative Salford’

2010 Russian Centre, ‘Russian with Love’, Painting.

2010 Comalford Mmercial Gallery ‘Brit Art’ group exhibition, Photograph.

2011 Sheffield Open Art Exhibition

2011 St Gemma’s Hospice, the annual Leeds Art Exibition

2012 Stockport Art Gallery

2012 St Gemma’s Hospice, the annual Leeds Art Exibition

2012 Didsbury Pasonage Trust, Personal Art Exibition

2012 Didsbury Perks and Rescorce Centre

2013-19 St Gemma’s Hospice, the annual Leeds Art Exhibition

20016 Saatchi Art exhibitions

2017-2019  Great Sheffield Art Show

• Nationality: UNITED KINGDOM
• Date of birth : unknown date
• Artistic domains: Works by professional artists,
• Groups: Contemporary British Artists