Harrison Ellenshaw

Harrison Ellenshaw grew up in the shadow of his father Peter Ellenshaw, a Disney Legend who won an Oscar for his visual effects work on Mary Poppins. Though fascinated by his father’s painting from an early age, Harrison found his talent intimidating and initially pursued a different path, earning a BA in psychology from Whittier College. During the recession of the early 1970s, his father suggested he try an apprenticeship in Disney’s matte department, where Harrison planned to stay just six months.
Under mentor Alan Maley’s guidance, Harrison discovered his passion for film and matte painting. After only four years, he became department head—a position that typically required twelve years of experience. His career breakthrough came with Star Wars, followed by The Empire Strikes Back, establishing him as a talent in his own right. He then collaborated with his father on Disney’s The Black Hole in 1979 before contributing his distinctive touch to the visually stunning cult classic Tron.
While working on the colorful Dick Tracy in 1989, Harrison encountered the Fauve movement at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Inspired by artists like Henri Matisse and Andre Derain, he transformed his fine art painting style, embracing vibrant, unexpected colors. His work has been exhibited at prestigious venues including Hammer Galleries in New York and galleries in London and San Francisco. Harrison has been nominated for an Academy Award and holds an honorary doctorate from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. He is represented by Park West Gallery.