Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1966, Tim Ellis self-identified as an artist from an early age. Ellis earned his BFA from Alfred University in New York, renowned for its distinguished ceramic art program. Excelling in his studies, Ellis earned the title of Art Student of the Year for two consecutive years and graduated with honors.

In his early work, Ellis delved into large-scale figure sculpture, working with media such as clay, plaster, steel, and bronze. His fascination with color led him to explore themes of perception and distortion, which have become central motifs in his art.

Over the past decade, Ellis has focused primarily on painting, employing a bold and spontaneous style that imbues each stroke with urgency and vitality. His work both captures the essence of his subjects and delves into their inner worlds.

Drawing inspiration from his eclectic background and human experience, Ellis created two distinct painting series: the Artist Series and the Jazz Series. The Artist Series pays homage to art world luminaries like Salvador Dali and Frida Kahlo, capturing their physical likenesses and creative personas. The Jazz Series celebrates jazz pioneers through vibrant compositions that blend abstraction and representation.

Since relocating to Los Angeles in the 1990s, Ellis has continued to evolve and innovate. His work has been showcased in prestigious exhibitions and galleries, and is collected both domestically and internationally. Ellis remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of his craft, exploring new avenues of expression, and inviting viewers into his imaginative world.