Jeanne
Sienkiewicz Ehinger
A life marked by artistic talent, curiosity, and compassion—Jeanne’s story is one
of perseverance, artistry, and love for family and pursuit of creative expression.
Early Life & Education
Jeanne Sienkiewicz Ehinger was a talented artist whose life was marked by creativity, dedication, and a deep love for her family. Born on June 7, 1932, in New Britain, CT, Jeanne was the daughter of Albin and Eva Rose Sienkiewicz, who immigrated to the port of New York from Poland via Rotterdam, Holland, in 1910 and 1923, respectively. As one of four children, she spent many hours with her siblings, Leocadia (Lucy), Henry, and Florentyne (Florence), during her early years. Jeanne graduated from New Britain Senior High School a year ahead of schedule, skipping a grade in primary school, and left home at age sixteen to pursue her passion for art at the Whitney School of Art in New Haven, CT. She later lived in New York City.
The Whitney School of Art, originally located in New Haven, Connecticut, was absorbed by the Paier School of Applied Arts when it closed, leading to the renaming of Paier’s institution as the Paier School of Art, which eventually became Paier College. This transition allowed The Whitney School’s legacy to continue through Paier’s programs and student body, with Paier becoming known for its focus on technical and professional training in the visual arts. During her tenure in art school, Jeanne had the opportunity to learn from accomplished local artist Leonard Everett Fisher and was also influenced by Faber Birren, an author and color theorist. Jeanne’s studies also included auditing classes at Yale to expand her knowledge of anatomy, as Yale did not admit women full-time until 1969.
New York Years
Jeanne’s art career was launched in New York, where she established herself as a studio and freelance graphic artist, producing advertising art for Fortune 500 companies. To support her budding career, she also worked as a fashion model in the early 1950s. Jeanne continued her art education with courses at Pratt Institute and the Art Students League of New York. Her talent was recognized when she won first prize in Silvermine’s prestigious New England Exhibition, now known as the Art of the Northeast.
Connecticut Years & Artistic Growth
Throughout her lifetime, Jeanne continued to explore various mediums and had a passion for learning new ways to express her creativity. Her art portfolio includes pen and ink, graphic design, oil, acrylic, mixed media, stained glass, and textiles. She was also known for creating one-of-a-kind designs for annual holiday cards and cards for special occasions such as birth announcements.
In June 1961, Jeanne married Nelson N. Ehinger Sr. They lived on the Upper East Side for several years, including when they started a family in 1962 with the birth of Nelson N. Ehinger Jr., followed by the birth of twins, Christopher and Jeffrey, in 1964. In 1965, the family moved to Darien, CT, and welcomed their daughter Geneve in 1968. In Connecticut, Jeanne continued to work on painting and graphic design projects in her home studio, including book jacket design. She taught oil painting at the Darien Community Association and learned the art of stained glass, creating several original designs. Jeanne was an active supporter of the local arts community, serving as an officer in the Stamford Arts Association and a member of the Rowayton Arts Center. She also combined her artistic talents with her knitting and sewing skills to produce original outerwear designs under the name Hats ‘n That in her later years.
Family & Legacy
Jeanne’s family life was equally fulfilling. She was married to Nelson N. Ehinger for 46 years, and together they had three sons and a daughter: Nelson N. Ehinger, Jr., Jeffrey S. Ehinger, Christopher D. Ehinger, and Geneve E. Hendricks. As a mother, she fostered creativity in each of her children, incorporating art into their recreation and extracurricular activities. She was also a dedicated Cub Scout leader and a volunteer in Boy Scout fundraising. Jeanne was a proud grandparent to seven grandchildren and enjoyed family gatherings at their lakeside house in Holland, Massachusetts.
Jeanne Sienkiewicz Ehinger’s life was a beautiful blend of art, family, and the continued pursuit of creative expression. Her legacy continues to inspire those who knew her and those who appreciate her artistic contributions.
The Artist’s Tools & Materials
The Unfinished Canvas
In the photo, Jeanne’s easel stands as it did in her studio — holding the final canvas she began before her passing. The work remains unfinished, a quiet testament to her lifelong commitment to creation. Even in its incomplete state, it reflects the same curiosity, balance, and grace that defined her art and her spirit.
The image above captures Jeanne’s creative world — her worn palettes layered with decades of color, her trusted brushes resting in a jar, and the warmth of the studio where she spent countless hours bringing ideas to life.
Jeanne worked with oil, acrylic, ink, and glass, exploring every medium that allowed her to express light, emotion, and form. Her materials often carried traces of past works — palettes reused, brushes reshaped over time — each one telling a story of persistence, experimentation, and devotion to her craft. Whether through the rich pigments of her paintings, the transparency of stained glass, or the fine lines of her illustrations, Jeanne’s art was always tactile, personal, and alive with texture.
Own a Piece of Jeanne’s Artistic Story
A perfect coffee-table keepsake, the book preserves her legacy and invites you to hold a physical piece of her world in your hands.