February 2006 Meeting
Guest Demonstrator: Elaine Cohen
Born in Bronx, New York, Elaine has lived in Los Angeles since she was five years old. As long as she could remember she wanted to be an artist. Married at a young age, Elaine had two sons, and settled into motherhood. The dream of becoming an artist was put aside.
After twelve years of marriage, Elaine was divorced and a single mother of a nine- and six-year-old. Raising them brought many challenges including the need for a career which would provide security for her two sons. She became very determined to meet all commitments head-on. Becoming a working artist was set farther back on her wish list. Elaine began studying Architectural rendering at Pierce College, Sculpture at Everywomen's Village and at the same time began an interior design business. Word spread and the design business flourished. She was now beginning to get closer to her dream of becoming a working artist by creating beautiful interiors.
Still, the responsibility of being a single mother was always utmost in her mind and security won over artistry. In 1981 Elaine entered the corporate world by joining a National Malpractice Insurance Company as Vice President of Administration, with responsibilities that included space planning, construction supervision, interior design, purchasing and art selections well as routine administrative duties. Not exactly the artistic career she dreamed of having.
During her career in Insurance, Elaine studied sculpture at the Robert Cunningham Studio one evening a week after work. Her hope was to one day reach her dream of being an Artist.
During that period Elaine remarried and while continuing to work for the Insurance Company she and her husband opened an Art Gallery and Consulting business in Sherman Oaks, California, while continuing her studies in sculpture. She also began drawing classes at Associates in Art.
Three years ago, Elaine left the corporate world and began to create her Art. Mainly a self-taught artist, Elaine has had numerous commissions for sculpted and pencil portraits, and began painting in oil. Elaine recently began creating exciting abstracts. Her new adventure is bringing her gratifying personal fulfillment.
Recently, Elaine’s work was featured on “White House Chronicles,” a national Public Television Show.
Divorce, a wonderful family, a successful corporate career, Elaine is now enjoying the career of her dreams.
Consulting Clients: The Visiting Nurses Association, Juniors Deli, El Cabellero Country Club.
Collectors: The John Stiegler Family; Mr. & Mrs. Louis Bershad; Mr. & Mrs. Sherwin Rosenthal; Ms. Sigal Tovar; Mrs. Evelyn Scialange, Bella Vista Stable; Mrs. Jennifer Ruddell; Ms. Judith Hill; Mr. & Mrs. Pat Harrington.
Charitable Donations: The El Camino Real Family of Schools, Melody of Words Participation, Art Docent, Las Virgenes School District, St Pauls the Apostle School, Jewish Home for the Aging.
Galleries include: A StuART Gallery, Encino; Soho Gallery, Studio City; Ufizzi Gallery, Los Angeles.