A Houston area artist is getting a very rare opportunity -- he was commissioned to paint a picture of the incoming president.

Ted Ellis has finished the painting that recognizes the historical accomplishment of Barack Obama becoming the 44th president of the United States. Originally from New Orleans, and now living in Friendswood, Ellis hopes his art will inspire others.

"I paint Subjects that are representative of the many facets of American life as I know it. I like to think of myself as a creative historian. I was put here to record history...all aspects of American culture and heritage. My sole purpose has always been to educate through my art."

Ellis has been recognized as one of the most celebrated artists of the 21st century. In a mere ten years, T. Ellis Art, Inc. has sold over 1,500,000 prints and posters nationwide. Ellis' private collectors are many and scattered throughout the globe. Major corporations have commissioned Ellis; A few of which include: Walt Disney Studios, The Minute Maid Company, Coca-Cola, Phillip Morris, and Avon, Incorporated.

He has also been featured on local and regional television programs, in magazines such as Upscale, Southern Living, and Newsweek, and is frequently featured in newspaper articles throughout the country. His artwork may also be found on CDs and books.

Ellis is self-taught and boldly blends realism and impressionism in his work, evoking nostalgia and inspiration. The art of this man both reveres and celebrates the traditional values of his culture. Ted Ellis, the man, lives the life he paints about.

For more infor on Ted Ellis and to see a larger picture of the painting, click here.
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