Ellina Zhanu was born in Nalchik, Russian Caucasus, in October 1988. 

At the age of 25, she started painting under the guidance of locally prominent artist. 

In 2019, Ellina – was a special guest participant of the Roommates exhibition, organized to support young and promising artists of the region; – created illustrations for both published collection of musical miniatures performed now in all Russian schools, and poetry collection to be presented soon by author in Russia and Europe; – was named as the creator for a series of graphic illustrations in film credits of local documentary director. 

In 2018, Art Center in Nalchik hosted 'Ellinizm: restarted' — the first Solo Art Show by Ellina, held on her 30th birthday. The exhibition opening was quite original and unconventional. The artist herself, her friends, theater actors and famous bloggers read short stories by Ellina. She performed jazz, rock and R'n'B pieces accompanied by local musicians. Live classical music and inspiring speeches made the event a real success and a subject of great interest for local community. Both Ellina and the Show were supported by honored artists of the region. 

In 2016, Mihail Chemiakin, the prominent Russian nonconformist artist, chose Ellina from more than 100 applicants to participate in his exhibition, held at the National Museum of Kabardino-Balkarian Republic.