Brought to you by Coromandel’s CFM – Supported by Rob Holding
Kylie Gunn has literally painted the town red. And blue. And green. And every other colour. And not just one town. We asked her how many murals she now has around the Hauraki and Coromandel.
I’ve completed about 13ish murals around the region so far, with another three planned this year – a large mural in Ngatea, one in Tairua and another large one in Thames. It’s exciting to see more walls becoming opportunities to tell local stories.
Do you have a favourite?
Some are special because of the stories they tell, others because of the people I met while painting them. Others because of the personal reflections and growth I go through in the process.
Did you graduate into murals or was that always your field?
I began with oils and sketching as a teen, then moved into murals seven years ago.
In the last five years, I’ve started exploring watercolour and pastel, and I’ve really enjoyed adding those to my toolkit.
Do you hide any Easter eggs in your works?
Occasionally! There are hidden ladybugs on the Ngatea garden mural. Sometimes friends or family members quietly appear as faces within a mural. Most people never notice, but those who do usually get a good laugh.
What is your thought process when someone commissions a new work?
I always begin by listening. Every community, business or family has a story worth telling. My goal is to create something that belongs to that place and that people will still enjoy decades from now.
How important is it to get the historic murals visually accurate?
Very important. I spend time researching photographs and talking with people who know the local history. I want the artwork to celebrate the past while remaining as authentic as possible.
Did you have a connection with the Coromandel/Hauraki before moving here?
Yes. My mother-in-law spent part of her childhood attending Ngatea Primary School and the local high school, and her mother owned the little shop in Ngatea that sold meat pies many years ago. It was lovely to discover those family connections after making this region home.
How do you spend your time when you’re not painting?
Lately there hasn’t been much ‘not painting’! Between murals and commissioned artworks, I’m kept pretty busy. It was fun recently having to sign an art release for the upcoming Minecraft 2 film, as they were filming on the street where my largest mural is located. I also help curate at our local Thames Art Gallery.
What’s important to Kylie Gunn?
Faith, family, community and creating artwork that brings positivity and perspective into people’s lives. My faith is at the centre of my life. Knowing God has given me solid answers to some of life’s biggest questions and a deep sense of purpose, hope and peace. That shapes not only my artwork, but the way I try to treat people every day – with kindness, humility and encouragement.
Supported by Rob Holding
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