Elias was born in Spokane and has always enjoyed artistic activities. Her first art training was a general art course in high school, then an art history course in college. After that, for 40 years, her artistic pursuits were confined to embroidery and various crafts while working full-time as a nurse and raising 3 children. As soon as she retired in 2010, Elias was able to investigate and start taking classes in watercolor painting which she always took interest in.
Marilyn Elias is entering her fourth year of art instruction in watercolor painting from Jack Rogers and Gail Johannes. In 2016, she participated in a student art show which led her to have a private show, participate in others and join professional art organizations.