The Warmhearted Adventures of Drifty Bernard and Others Along the Way
December 22, 2025 – April 20, 2026
With a sharp eye for detail and a sharper sense of humor, Ellen Haman creates whimsical paintings often featuring her Pomeranian Drifty Bernard, and other animals getting into mischief and having adventures. Haman’s paintings each tell a unique story that draws the viewer into her humorous world. Whether it is squirrels having tea, dogs playing poker, or a skunk stopping to smell the roses, Ellen Haman’s paintings are sure to entertain and delight the viewer. Inspired by her own animals and images shared by friends, Haman enjoys capturing the amusing moments that that beg to be painted or drawn.
Haman writes:
“As long as I can remember I’ve tried to make any kind of art. I have been drawing with whatever’s close: crayons on the wall, napkins on tables, fresh cement, my desk at school - anything. Somewhere along the line I figured out people might be happier if I went the conventional route and kept my work on paper or canvas. That part has changed. In my grownup years I have had requests for murals on a barn and a few bedroom walls! When I have a brush or a pencil in my hand my brain tunes out life’s distractions and lets my mind meander to a more comfortable place. I hope people who view a painting or drawing of mine tell me it’s funny, or it looks kooky or just that they think it’s weird. I also wouldn’t be mad if they say they like it. Maybe they’ll be inspired to do some art of their own. That’s when I feel I’ve done a good thing. Hopefully the way I paint will give people a little bit of a boost to their day.”
Ellen Haman has enjoyed living in Johnson County, Iowa most of her life. Benefiting greatly from the educational opportunities and cultural experiences that come with having the University of Iowa almost in her own back yard. Ellen is a current UI Health Care volunteer and was recognized for having served for over 1000 hours in 2004.
Ellen Haman, Because I Care About You, 2025, mixed media on canvas, 11 x 14
