Painter and printmaker Sean has recently made Raglan home and is preparing to open Wainui Road Gallery.
Ahead of his first Raglan Arts Weekend, he talks about finding inspiration in the landscape, his creative process and the varied interests that influence his work.
How would you describe your artwork?
My artwork endeavours to capture the beauty and brevity of life using thick oil paint in a variety of vibrant colours. I also make handmade screen, woodblock and intaglio prints.
How did your journey as an artist begin?
I have loved drawing since I was a child, which then led me on to painting and printmaking. I had an excellent art teacher at school who helped me get into art school.
Can you tell us about your creative process? Where does an idea usually begin for you?
My creative process often begins with a photograph of an area that inspires me – the beach, ocean, clouds or trees. I block in the basic feeling of the image and then let the work take on a life of its own. You have to listen to your artwork. The hardest part is knowing when it’s finished.
How has moving to Raglan influenced your journey as an artist?
I recently moved from Baylys Beach in Northland, where I had a little art gallery and studio. There is a wonderful but very small community of artists up there. I believe Raglan offers many more opportunities, as there are lots of other artists to share ideas with. Plus, the landscape here is amazing!
When you’re not creating, what do you love doing?
I love keeping fit and active. Surfing is a big passion of mine, along with making music. I also work as a tour guide, showing domestic and overseas passengers around Aotearoa. I get a lot of my artistic inspiration from travelling around our incredible country.
What’s next for you? Do you have any upcoming projects or exhibitions?
I am just about to open a new art gallery and studio in Raglan called Wainui Road Gallery. If you see the flags out, drop in and say hello!
I’m also excited to have my first Raglan Arts Weekend experience coming up in October. I will be exhibiting paintings and handmade prints at the new gallery on Wainui Road.
I’ll hold a free printmaking demonstration from 4pm to 5pm on Sunday, 25 October. For more information, email newzealandpainter@gmail.com or follow @nzpainter on Instagram.
