The Art of Mercy

J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium provides twenty-first century readers with a much-needed haven from the busy world around them. In his mercy, Tolkien generously balances scenes of high drama with unforgettable pauses for the refreshment of both characters and readers. His work remains true to the themes of “recovery, escape, and consolation” described in his seminal lecture and essay, “On Fairy-Stories.”

This book offers a visual portal to these three merciful themes, which form the central subject of Miriam Ellis’s body of Tolkien paintings. Ellis’s artwork strives for faithful accuracy to the texts which she has been reading since childhood. The quieter moments in Tolkien are sometimes neglected in portrayals, but in them resides the beauty of Middle-earth. Focusing on those moments, this book is a treasury with which readers can relax and enjoying both the paintings and the brief but evocative essays drawn from the artist’s contemplation of memorable scenes in the legendarium and the many details of the paintings. Like The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion, this book should be a source of recovery, escape, and consolation for the reader.

Miriam Ellis is an award-winning fine artist, published illustrator, and a professional columnist whose imagination has been shaped by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien since her father first read her “The Hobbit” before she could read a chapter book herself. As a lifelong Tolkien student, she is devoted to faithfully depicting the author’s own words, and her paintings celebrate the themes of recovery, escape, and consolation in the legendarium. She believes that these quieter scenes of fellowship and refreshment are the keys to the beauty of Middle-earth.

Miriam’s work is highly detailed and known for its ability to reconnect viewers with their own first readings of Tolkien’s masterpieces. She is praised for her mastery of light and expressive faces, and for her jewel-like use of color. Her art has appeared in magazines, major fandom YouTube channels, calendars, and the Tolkien Society’s publications.

“We all wish, sometimes, that we could have lived in Middle-earth, and Miriam Ellis’s paintings suggest that she has. They celebrate moments of joy and relief -- including the understated ones, like Lobelia’s release from the Lockholes -- and it does the heart good to be reminded of them in such an inspirational way.” - Tom Shippey, author of J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century

“The most appealing and authentic conceptions from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings that I’ve seen in years.” - Ted Nasmith, artist and illustrator of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion

“Miriam Ellis’s evocative artwork draws out the themes of mercy, hope, consolation, friendship, hospitality, and joy that run deep in Tolkien’s writing. The Art of Mercy in Middle-earth provides a fresh and engaging look at the world, characters, and stories of Middle-earth, and Ellis’s clear and thoughtful introductions and notes on each painting make it a particularly valuable book to help younger readers appreciate the contribution of the arts to enjoying a wonderful story.” - Holly Ordway, author of Tolkien’s Faith: A Spiritual Biography

“The Art of Mercy in Middle-earth offers us real insight into the genius of Tolkien. My inner boy yearns to step into these illustrations and bathe myself in the comfort of these magical scenes. They are, literally, wonder-full.” - John Creedon, RTÉ television and radio host and author of That Place We Call Home

“Miriam Ellis’s exquisite paintings are beautifully vibrant and original - a true gift to the world of Tolkien-inspired art.” - Dr. Hannah McDonald, Secretary and Trustee of The Tolkien Society

“In artwork as alive to wonder and beauty as the tales they depict, Ellis brings new eyes to Tolkien’s Middle-earth.” - Nancy Marie Brown, author of Looking for the Hidden Folk

“The Art of Mercy in Middle-earth invites readers on a visual journey through J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium, exploring the profound themes of recovery, escape, and consolation. With stunning illustrations and insightful commentary, Ellis masterfully captures the essence of Tolkien's world, from the humble comforts of the Shire to the ethereal beauty of Lothlórien. This captivating work not only celebrates the artistic vision of Middle-earth but also delves into the spiritual and moral depths of Tolkien's creation, offering readers a fresh perspective on beloved characters and landscapes. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Tolkien's world, Ellis's book promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the timeless tales that have captured hearts for generations.” - Dr. Sara Brown, Signum University

“Miriam Ellis uses color, layout and lighting to breathtaking effect, making the deep emotions of Tolkien’s world jump off the canvas. Every element of her paintings is well researched and considered, and it brings me such joy to study every new painting she makes. This book is fantastic for the art as well as the essays, and has earned a coveted spot on my shelves, and will be revisited often. I cannot wait to see what Miriam will paint next!” - Jeremy Edmunds, creator of Tolkien Collector’s Guide

“Miriam Ellis’s delightful illustrations are as whimsical and magical as the world they depict. They are wonderful companions to Tolkien’s world.” - Matt Graf, creator of The Nerd of the Rings

“Not just a collection of deeply beautiful Middle-earth artwork, The Art of Mercy in Middle-earth is an insightful journey through Tolkien’s world, as Ellis gently nudges readers to discover eye-opening truths in Middle-earth and re-examine familiar texts.” - Alan Sisto, creator of The Prancing Pony Podcast and co-author of Why We Love Middle-earth

“Paintings of remarkable beauty and skill, filled with moments of comfort and stillness – Ellis is a worldbuilder in the truest sense of the word.” - Dr. Joel Merriner, author of Illustrating the Lord of the Rings in the Soviet Bloc

“Miriam Ellis’s art captures the love, joy, and beauty of Tolkien’s world like no other. A true marvel. I can feel Tolkien smile through her paintings.” - Robert Saunders, creator of In Deep Geek

The Art of Mercy in Middle-earth: Paintings Inspired by Tolkien’s Legendarium