Meet the Artist Behind The Zodiacs Puzzle – Ellen Brenneman

When it came time to select the featured puzzle for this year’s Portland Jigsaw Masters, I had the chance to work closely with Susan (owner of GoodWay Puzzles) on the decision. As soon as we came across Ellen Brenneman’s zodiac paintings, we both immediately saw the potential. Each sign was beautifully illustrated as a standalone piece—but together, they formed a striking, cohesive collage. Astrology is a theme that resonates with so many people, and Ellen’s ability to weave in symbolism, emotion, and visual storytelling made this series a perfect fit for a competitive setting.

We’re so excited to feature Ellen in this month’s Artist Spotlight and share more about her background and creative process.

The Zodiacs by Ellen Brenneman

1. Can you tell us a little bit about your background as an artist?

I have been creating in some form or another for as long as I can remember. I studied graphic design in college and, upon graduation, thought my next step would be a master’s degree in art therapy. But I first wanted to spend a year working with developmentally challenged children before heading back to school. I ended up working for over a decade as a direct support professional while managing a small side business as a furniture painter and muralist.

Then, in 2012, I required major surgery. Unable to work due to a lengthy recovery, I turned to art as a means of healing and therapy. I ultimately took the “now or never” approach and decided to pursue art full-time.

Growth Spurt by Ellen Brenneman

2. Did you always see yourself doing artwork for puzzles, or did it happen unexpectedly?

It was quite an unexpected surprise! If someone had told me a year ago that my artwork would be enjoyed as a puzzle, I wouldn’t have believed it. Now, I’m discovering a lot about the puzzle community—something I knew very little about before—and I find it very interesting!

3. What was your creative process like for The Zodiacs puzzle?

Throughout my art career, I’ve found that I do my best work when creating within a series. While I’m happiest painting whimsical animals, I also realize that not everyone is drawn to animal-themed art. The idea for my Zodiac series came from the simple truth that nearly everyone feels some kind of connection to astrology—even if it’s just knowing their own sign. So, I set out to complete one zodiac painting per month, with the goal of finishing all twelve in a year. That turned out to be a bit ambitious, though—it took me several years to complete the series.

Ellen's stacks study for the inspiration behind Scorpio

4. Which zodiac sign was your personal favorite to illustrate — and why?

Ooh, that’s a tough one. Honestly speaking, I spent so much time working on them individually, each captured a piece of my heart for different reasons. I truly love them all.

5. What was it like seeing people puzzling your artwork in a competitive setting?

I watched it during the livestream and was completely mesmerized. During the initial countdown, I remember feeling a wave of nervousness, hoping that it would be well-received. Being an artist often takes a lot of courage, because sharing something you’ve created is truly sharing a piece of yourself. Having not just one, but 12 of my paintings seen and studied by so many people left me both exhilarated and with a belly full of butterflies. In the end, it was truly an amazing experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my work with others.

Hannah - Winner of the Individual Contest Finishing the puzzle in 38 minutes!

6. Are there any details in The Zodiacs that you’re especially proud of (or that people might not notice right away)?

Oh my gosh, so many. I personally love the multitude of twinkling stars that appear in various designs—such as the goat’s beard in Capricorn and the archer’s dress in Sagittarius. Also, the twins in Gemini were meant to loosely resemble mountains overlooking a lavender field, which also happens to be the zodiac flower for that sign.

7. We know you have other artwork featured in puzzles — is there a piece you’ve created that you’d love to see turned into a puzzle next?

I have several fun paintings I think would work well as a puzzle design. However, I recently completed a vibrant, fun painting of a Great Horned Owl wearing a headdress that I’d hope people would find entertaining to put together. There are a lot of intricate details and colorful feathers, so there’s lots to look at.

Great Horned Owl

8. What other types of work do you do outside of puzzles?

Whimsical animals are where my heart truly lies, and that is where I focus most of my creative energy. I love the storytelling aspect of my work—pairing unlikely animals together and inviting the viewer to imagine their own story about what’s going on.

9. Where can people follow your work or see more of what you’re creating?

My portfolio of work and online shop can be found on my website at ellenbrennemanstudio.com. I offer a newsletter option there as well.

I also share works in progress on my social media channels:

• Facebook.com/EllenBrennemanStudio
• Instagram: @ellenbrennemanstudio