Ellen Witwer Noël (American, 1923–2008) was an avid amateur painter and passionate advocate for the arts whose generosity and vision helped shape the cultural landscape of Odessa. Although she did not pursue art professionally, she actively painted and fostered a creative community through a group known as the "Ladies of the Attic," regularly inviting friends to paint together in her home. Her lifelong commitment to artistic expression and arts education inspired the continued mission of the Ellen Noël Art Museum, reflecting her belief that art should be accessible to and enjoyed by all.