Ellen Reinke was raised on a farm in central Indiana. Her upbringing has served as an inspiration for painting. In high school she received encouragement for her art instructor, and this strengthened her passion to create art. In 2004 and 2005, Reinke enrolled in a series of art workshops held by Joseph Fettingis to improve her watercolor skills. Whatever medium she works with, Ellen continues to create artwork that shows her love for upbringing on the farm, and her solid relationship with nature and her surroundings.