Friday, October 03, 2014

New Zealand in Watercolour



Now in a fresh new paperback format, New Zealand in Watercolour showcases a selection of beautiful paintings by 30 of the country’s leading watercolour artists. Four or five paintings from each contributor are displayed, accompanied by captions from the artists themselves that explain their technical and emotional approach to the subject, along with a brief artist profile and photo.
       The subtlety and range of this popular medium are exquisitely reproduced, creating a special collection of artistic perspectives on the New Zealand landscape, people and daily life that will be treasured both by art lovers and by visitors who wish to take away an original memento of a beautiful country


Denis Robinson (1940-2012) worked with creative people throughout his career as a designer, art director and gallery manager. He was instrumental in initiating the Auckland Art Fair and acted as a judge in regional art competitions. A passionate advocate for New Zealand art, he profiled the work of many artists in his books and was acknowledged as a leading authority on their work.
       Denis compiled eight books about New Zealand artists, including the bestselling New Zealand: A Painted Country  (2007, reprinted three times), New Zealand on Canvas, New Zealand Gallery, Artists’ Impressions of New Zealand and Christchurch: An artists’ tribute with New Holland Publishers.

       Art Direction, the art and design consultancy he established to connect artists with patrons and art lovers, can be accessed online at www.artdirection.co.nz

New Holland - $49.99

Here are two illustrations that especially appealed to me but truly the book is filled with wonderful images from all over the country.



Page 114, top: Little Waihi, Bay of Plenty, 2007, 30 x 50 cm
An example of truly original Kiwi baches, where people just walk out of their back doors to their own jetty. Painted on site, quite a tricky subject for this.

Page 114, bottom: From the Shore, Auckland, 2007, 60 x 80 cm
This is a wonderful view of Auckland city viewed from the North Shore with its contrasting low tide and mangroves. To make this painting easier I used a very limited palette, which lent itself to the late afternoon light.

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