Kia ora! I’m Sebastien Pan, a film and television composer, musician and artist. I’ve been calling Whitianga home since 2015, but my roots trace back to the eastern landscapes of France. Oui, oui.
Even if my main interest since childhood is music (and Chardonnay), art has always been a part of my life as a way to relax; there’s something very peaceful about standing in front of a canvas, or a piece of paper, and letting your creativity flow freely. It’s the perfect balance with my film composer job where I have to follow tons of rules, make concessions, etc. Having both mediums to express myself is fantastic and just what I need.
In terms of artistic influence, my favourite painter is William-Adolphe Bouguereau, who has a very academic style – the academic style is often criticised by modern artists for its over-polished textures, but I love it; you can’t choose what brings emotions to you, anyway.
I’m not necessarily drawing or painting in the styles of the artists I admire though, I’m just doing what’s coming to my mind at an instant.
Regarding film music, I’ve been lucky to work in Hollywood with some of my favourite composers (John Powell, Tom Holkenborg and Christopher Young) before standing on my own two feet and getting my own projects internationally. I could talk for hours about soundtracks but it’s not the subject here. And regarding music in general, I have an eclectic taste but my preferred genre is by far Metal, from Dream Theater to Meshuggah (for the few metalheads here who will know these bands).
Moving to Aotearoa New Zealand years ago, more precisely to Whitianga, had a great impact on my music and art. The beautiful and quiet environment enhances creativity and meeting talented local musicians and artists is always an enriching experience. The Coromandel is full of creative and talented people and it’s easy to get to know them.
My creative journey has been shaped by both my French heritage and my newfound home in Whitianga.
While my artistic influences vary, my work is ultimately a reflection of my immediate inspiration.
You can check more of my work on my website and Instagram profile.
Au revoir
Instagram: @sebastien.pan
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