Sarah Gordon’s Abstract Exploration of Aotearoa and Beyond
In my Ferry Landing studio, I draw inspiration from the ocean rolling into Maramaratōtara Bay from Mercury Bay. My studio, nestled within our developing garden, provides a sanctuary for my creativity. While my surroundings significantly influence my work, my artistic vision has been equally shaped by years of travel and diverse life experiences.
Growing up in rural Tairāwhiti Gisborne, I was surrounded by the rugged beauty of the East Coast. The light, texture and natural rhythms of the area left a lasting impression, forming the foundation of my layered, abstract painting style
Later, my years in Wellington working in landscape design honed my observational skills and deepened my connection to the land. Sketching and painting Wellington’s contrasting terrain and observing its famous winds interacting with water provided further inspiration.
On moving to the Coromandel in 2017, I felt at home. The beautiful coastlines of the Coromandel and East Coast remain two of my most enduring Aotearoa inspirations. Through abstract impressions, I aim to capture the essence of these landscapes – their resilience, beauty, and ever-changing nature.
Travel has played a major role in shaping my art. My partner Steven and I have explored a variety of landscapes and cultures. Two summers sailing the Mediterranean were particularly formative. Traveling from France to Turkey, I absorbed the region’s vibrant colours, shimmering waters, and historic coastal towns. More recently, an eight-week journey through Cuba and Mexico introduced me to rich dynamic cultures and striking landscapes that now feature prominently in my work.
San Cristóbal de las Casas in Chiapas, Mexico, left a profound impression. This southern highland town is covered with murals that narrate stories of mountainous rebellion, women’s rights, water rights, religion, and life. The riotous reds of bougainvillea and the distinctive purple of jacarandas spill onto pavements, complementing the buildings painted in every Mexican hue. I spent memorable days printmaking with lino cuts, sketching in the streets, and drawing inspiration from the region’s deep river canyons. The friendly locals and incredible food enriched the experience. I even stumbled upon a Kiwi running a café, producing gorgeous gluten-free food while building social enterprises with the local community.
Mexico’s diverse shores were equally inspiring. I recall hundreds of pelicans diving into the soft, milky-toned waters of the Gulf, stone ruins cascading into the vivid aqua-teal Caribbean Sea, and the hot oranges and reds of the Gulf sunsets. On the Pacific coast, the fine mist from ocean rollers settled the heat of a new morning. These moments deepen my appreciation for the world’s beauty, and NZ water! As an artist, I often find inspiration slightly off the main tourist trails, where unexpected sights await discovery. A habit of looking back while walking reveals new perspectives – and the occasional trip hazard!
In my studio, I bring these experiences to life through a distinctive process inspired by an old oil encaustic technique. Using acrylic paint and wax, I create depth and movement through layers – sometimes up to 40 thin, transparent glazes. Silicon and steel blades allow me to manipulate the paint, adding texture and energy. Whether working on canvas, timber board, or heavy art paper, each piece reflects the places I’ve explored and the emotions they evoke.
The journey to becoming a full-time artist has been winding, including studies at the Inverlochy Art School in Wellington which developed essential technical skills in acrylic and watercolour. Later, abstract art lessons in Paris helped me embrace a freer, more expressive approach. These experiences, combined with years of practice, have shaped my distinctive style.
I have had the privilege of sharing my work through various exhibitions. Highlights include my 2021 solo show, ‘Weathered Beauty’, at the Tairāwhiti Museum Art Gallery, and my early 2025 solo exhibition, ‘Mexican Snapshots’, at the Matawhero Cellar Door Art Gallery in Gisborne. Local events like the Mercury Bay Art Escape each March, and the annual She Shed exhibition in Wainui (Gisborne) every November, offer opportunities to connect with the community and share the stories behind my work.
For me, painting is more than creating art; it is a way to honour the essence of a place and the emotions it stirs. From my Art Shed I continue to explore enduring Aotearoa inspirations and share the world’s beauty, one layer at a time.
Words by Sarah Gordon
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