Settling on the Coromandel Peninsula over 30 years ago, I’ve found much to spark creative inspiration in our beautiful environment. The land and seascapes, beaches, bush-clad hills, ever-changing light and striking coastline often feature in my work. Dinghies, caravans and old baches under ancient pōhutukawa have become central characters in many of my paintings, evoking a warm sense of nostalgia and playful wonder.
My goal is to create paintings with an uplifting quality and genuine warmth that reach out and touch the viewer. Using very few straight lines, my technique and personal style breathes life into the work, creating movement, vibrancy and a depth of character which makes the paintings very relatable and accessible.
When planning a painting I like to spend time capturing ideas and details with my camera from different angles, finding a pleasing balance and looking for patterns of light and shade. I particularly enjoy the quality of light early or late in the day when the sunlight is golden, colours are vibrant and shadows deep. My preparation before beginning a painting is meticulous, with a detailed pencil drawing and careful consideration balancing the composition.
I’ve enjoyed completing many commission paintings for families who wish to capture fond memories of holidays spent at old baches, some that have been outgrown and will be replaced by a larger beach house. It’s often sad to see the old baches I’ve painted disappear, but wonderful to think I’ve been able to preserve a little piece of history.
Other times I work from imagination, and recently I’ve been challenging myself with abstract and semi-abstract work which has been both exciting and frustrating at times! But that’s just part of the learning process, and as I become more comfortable with this approach I’ve been enjoying some satisfying results.
Whitianga Art Gallery has some of my work on display, also Cove. Beach Essentials in Hahei.
Currently living in Hahei, I welcome commission work enquiries and studio visitors by appointment.
A gallery of originals, limited edition prints, cards and contact details are available on my website – www.rachelolsenartist.com
