Artist who stutters creates beautiful children's book

Early on, artist Ellen Skidmore discovered painting as a way of self-expression and acceptance. As she says in the artist's statement on her website, "Because of my painting, I have been able to accept the disturbing contradictions and opposites of life itself. I have been able to accept instead of question. It has become my sanctuary."

Ellen has depicted her own struggles growing up with a severe stutter in her children's book, Ellen, The Little Girl who Found Her Voice. Illustrated with her gorgeous paintings, the book is aimed at helping young people who stutter to overcome bullying and find self-esteem.

In October, Ellen, who hails from Kentucky, was the guest speaker at the Business for the Arts breakfast series held at the NSU Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale. Check out the video for an interesting interview with Ellen.