Elaine Hanowell is a Pacific Northwest native whose work reflects the love of nature and wilderness associated with many Northwest artists, but combines that sensibility with the colors and textures of global cultures. Working primarily in wood and paper, her work is influenced by extensive study and travel.

She has done several residencies in Indonesia, absorbing the culture, gaining inspiration from their spirituality, and appreciating the color, texture, and expression of form that permeates their daily life. During these residencies she has also honed her skills as a woodcarver using traditional woods and tools.

Hanowell's work has been featured in solo and group shows since 1980. In 2007, Hanowell was honored with the Grand Prize in the Margo Harris Hammerschlag Biennial Open National Competition in Sculpture for Direct Carving, Awarded by the National Association of Women Artists in New York, the oldest professional women's fine art organization in the United States.

Her lighted sculptures are recognized throughout the West Coast, from large installations in public buildings, such as popular Seattle restaurant The Dahlia Lounge, to smaller custom arrangements in private residences. In 2015, her carved sculpture work was exhibited at the Bellevue Arts Museum in their "Knock on Wood" biennial.