Carroll’s inspiration for her art frequently comes from nature—whether a beautiful scenic landscape, her flower garden, her own children or the beach. When she goes to the beach along Lake Michigan, she thinks, “How can I bring this home?” She strives to recreate the blue waters and the peaceful feeings of the beach, one of her favorite places.

More than anything, Carroll loves the creative aspect. For art, one must create something new, she said. This is what makes it different from a craft because a craft is replicating something someone else already created, she explained.

In addition to painting, Carroll is also passionate about photography.

Ena Carroll
Ellie Feeding Seagulls: Acrylic on canvas (11in x 16in)

“I’ve been taking photos my whole life,” she said.

When her kids were in high school, Carroll would create her own senior portraits for them. When the school psychologist found this out, Carroll received a phone call asking if she would consider doing portraits for the kids who couldn’t afford professional photography.

“Absolutely,” Carroll responded.

Carroll said the teens have been fun to work with, and it has been a joy to watch them light up when they see their pictures. She remembers a particular girl who had never really been treated as if she were beautiful.

“When she saw her photo, she was so happy,” Carroll said. “I was…touched. This made me happy for about a month.”

It is this love for helping others that has made Carroll not just an artist who creates great artwork, but also an artist who creates a better community.

“This is a way for me to better the lives of others,” Carroll said. “Bringing people joy--this is what makes me happy.”