Ellen Robbins Paintings

Ellen Robbins was an American botanical artist known for her watercolor paintings of flowers and plants. Born on August 13, 1828, in Watertown, Massachusetts, she was largely self-taught, developing her skills and techniques through her own dedication to studying nature.

Ellen Robbins did not begin her career as an artist until her thirties. She initially worked as a teacher but found her true calling in painting after she was introduced to watercolor. Her passion for flowers and her meticulous attention to detail quickly became evident in her work. She gained recognition for her ability to capture the delicate nuances of plant life, from the transparency of petals to the subtle shifts in color and light.

Robbins' art was well-received, and she enjoyed considerable success during her lifetime. Her works were sold throughout the United States, and she exhibited at various institutions, including the Boston Athenaeum. Robbins' paintings were not only appreciated for their artistic merit but also for their scientific accuracy, making them valuable to botanists and horticulturists. She also published a book titled 'Alphabet of Flowers' in 1870, which was well-received.

Despite facing the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated art world, Ellen Robbins carved out a successful career. She was a trailblazer for women in the field of botanical illustration, paving the way for future generations of female artists.

Ellen Robbins continued to paint throughout her life, remaining active until her death on February 19, 1905. Today, her work is recognized for its contribution to the genres of botanical art and watercolor painting, and her pieces are considered valuable by collectors and historians alike. Her dedication to her craft and her love for the natural world continue to inspire artists and nature enthusiasts.