GINN, ELINORE (1915-1995)

“I Carry Yin To Flowers” (c.1970)
mixed media
43 x 58cm
signed lower right
*private collection, Sydney
 
Ellinore Ginn Q.S.M. is a forgotten Canadian-New Zealand Modernist & Actress. Born in Waterloo, Canada, Ellinore relocated to London to study acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Acting. She earned a contract with the BBC, making films at Al Parker and Pinewood Studios. During this time in London, she also managed to study painting at Heatherleys School Of Art under famous artist, Iain McNab. During WWII she was an Ambulance driver, after which she relocated to New Zealand with husband Russel. She then Founded Porirua Little Theatre in 1950, Acted and Directed for many years and went on to make her name as a Fantasy Artist where she taught art, exhibited widely - and formed 'The Red Cottage Gallery' first in Wellington and then Waikanae, to help struggling young artists exhibit their works. She also befriended legendary New Zealand Modernist, Rita Angus, whom she lived with and modelled for. She exhibited regularly throughout New Zealand, most notably the Christchurch Society Of Arts & Auckland War Memorial. In 1993 she was awarded the Q.S.M. for services to the arts.