Ellene "Brit" Christiansen Memorial
Art, Advocacy, and Legacy:
The Life of Ellene ‘Brit’ Christiansen
Ellene — lovingly known to friends and family as “Ellie” and to the artist community as "Brit"— was a Baltimore artist whose gentle spirit and fierce belief in possibility touched everyone she met. A proud graduate of Eastern High School (Class of 1951) and the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA, 1955), Brit combined her formal training with a natural gift for craftsmanship to create work that was both beautiful and meaningful.
She built a small but beloved business called Brit Originals, where she designed handcrafted enameled jewelry, printed greeting cards, and one-of-a-kind handmade gifts. Her work could be found at well-known Baltimore markets such as Bolton Hill Festival and the Flower Mart, where locals cherished not only the pieces themselves but also the joyful energy Brit brought to every interaction. Each design carried her personal mark — a delicate tiny “b” signature for Brit — which became a symbol of her artistry, generosity, and commitment to community.
In 1952, Brit was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, a challenge that might have discouraged many. Instead, it became a source of strength and inspiration. Her creativity only grew deeper, and her mission became clearer: to live fully and to use her art to bring happiness to others. Brit often donated proceeds from her handmade cards and jewelry to organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association, turning her craft into a tool for awareness and support.
Beyond her business, Brit loved working with children — especially those facing physical and developmental disabilities. She believed that every child is an artist when given encouragement and opportunity. Whether teaching, mentoring, or simply sharing stories, she used art as a way to nurture confidence, expression, and hope.
Today, Brit’s legacy continues through the Ellene “Brit” Christiansen Memorial Fund founded by her husband Dick Frye, which supports art programs for people with disabilities in Maryland. Her story remains a powerful reminder that creativity, resilience, and generosity can turn personal challenges into lasting impact for generations to come.
Our Board
Tricia Lane-Forster
President, Art Teacher Ridge Ruxton School
Terri Seitz
Vice President, Consumer Advocate, Chair of County Commission on Disabilities
Richard Doran
Secretary, Advocate, Past Director of Recreation and Camping League for People with Disabilities
Chad Michael Casserly
Treasurer, Consumer Advocate, Past Director of Camping and Recreation at League, and Baltimore County Commission of Disabilities
Dan Keplinger
(King Gimp) Artist , Consumer Advocate
Nancy Doran
Advocate and Licensed Occupational Therapist
Sandee Widomski
CCBC Art Instructor for Alternative and Special Education
Diane Mick
Advocate and Occupational Therapist at Baer School
Past Board Members:
Dick Frye, David Ward, David Thompson, Katie McGuire,
John Staehlin, Clark Jeunette, Mike Stewart
*All Board members serve as volunteers.
Board Members: Tricia Lane-Forster, Terri Seitz, Chad Michael Casserly, Nancy Doran, Richard Doran
Our Commitment
The Board of Directors is steadfast in ensuring that every contribution is managed with responsibility, transparency, and care. We recognize the trust you place in us, and we are committed to directing resources where they matter most—providing meaningful artistic opportunities for people with disabilities.
Carrying Forward Brit’s Legacy
Our mission is rooted in Brit’s enduring belief in the power of artistic expression. She considered her own creativity a blessing and dreamed of a world where every person, regardless of ability, could access the same joy, confidence, and growth through the arts. The Board is united in honoring that vision and ensuring it thrives for generations to come.
Guiding Principles
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Integrity – Stewarding resources with transparency and accountability.
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Inclusion – Ensuring people with disabilities are supported and celebrated through the arts.
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Legacy – Carrying forward Brit’s passion for creativity and opportunity.
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Impact – Measuring success by the lives enriched and futures shaped through artistic achievement.
Join Us
You can play a vital role in shaping the future of young artists with disabilities. Whether through financial support, community partnerships, or volunteering your time, your involvement helps bring Brit’s vision to life. Together, we can open doors, nurture creativity, and ensure every person has the chance to shine.
Request Funding
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