If you've spotted the colorful knitted dragon on the fence opposite the Lincoln Road exit of the B/Q Subway stop - and how could you EVER miss it - chances are you've encountered the work of Ellie d'E., textile artist, community art-maker, and enthusiastic believer that everyone deserves access to art that reflects their lives.

Ellie grew up in a suburb of DC before moving to NYC in 2007, Flatbush in 2011, and finally PLG in 2015. She joined Maple Street Community Garden in spring 2025 and quickly found it to be much more than a garden.

For Ellie, the garden is “a safe harbor in chaotic times—a quiet place to rest, a welcoming space to connect with nature and neighbors”. It's a place where she can slow down and reconnect with the community around her.

As a textile artist, much of Ellie's work centers on community engagement and public art. Her colorful knit pieces can be found on scaffolds around the neighborhood, and many of her uplifting phrases were born during the stress and fear of the 2020 pandemic. Her work is often inspired by children's picture books, bringing a sense of play, warmth, and possibility into public spaces.

Ellie's philosophy is simple: art is good for us. She believes public art is an important part of community health and that everyone should have the opportunity to encounter art that speaks to their lived experience.

How does she express her creativity in everyday life? "By turning everything into an art project or chance to express myself." Oh how at the Maple Street community Garden just love that approach!

And if Ellie could be any plant in the garden? The wild, crazy kale section!

Sure, she loves the stunning sunflowers and all the flashy plants. But there's something about that enormous, energetic kale that really speaks to her. "I want to be that."

We're so glad that Ellie and her creative imagination is part of our community—and grateful she reminds us that art can be joyful, accessible, a little unexpected, and occasionally as wild as a patch of kale.

Spotlight by Zhenia N.

If you’d like to join the Arts Committee, whether you are an artist, musician, poet, muralist, art teacher or you’re a creative person interested in helping with arts events, fill out this google form. You can also email Arts.MSCG@gmail.com.

Artist Spotlight: Ellie d'E.