Ethel Léontine Gabain later married the graphic artist John Copley and became the mother of well-known actor Peter Copley. She was one of the few in her time whose art paid her way. She was born in France and lived there for over 20 years before moving to Great Britain, where she studied lithography in London. Gabain later became known for her oil paintings concerning her favorite model and actress Carmen Watson. She also painted landscapes during her stay in Alessio, Italy in the 1920s. During World War II she became known as a war artist, often painting women in their daily routines.