ARTIST PROFILE: Sara Collis
Art is my passion. I've been painting and drawing for most of my life and I've always been driven by a need to produce beautiful things. Oil is definitely my favourite medium; it has such a wonderful tradition and its versatility suites the diversity of my range perfectly.
I'm captivated by colour, form and movement. These are strong motifs in my work and I can trace them back to my childhood. I was born in Blenheim New Zealand, and from an early age I drew inspiration from the vibrancy and colours of the New Zealand coast. I'm especially enthralled by the blues and greens of the paua (New Zealand abalone) and the stark red of the pohutukawa (New Zealand Christmas tree).
A move to Melbourne Australia in 2004 provided a burst of motivation and I revel in the larger arts scene. I've also gained a special appreciation of the dramatic contrasts of the Australian landscape and its constantly changing moods and palette.
For inspiration I like to challenge myself. In 2006 I took up scuba diving and it quickly became a source of intense fascination. I explore the uniqueness of the marine environment in many of my recent paintings. I'm also interested in a range of other styles and subjects; especially portraits, animals and the abstract.
When it comes to my work I'm a real perfectionist. I'm constantly striving to create excellent pieces that reveal my commitment to detail and enthusiasm for life and art.
Exhibitions
- 2002 - Manawatu Telecom Art Awards finalist New Zealand. Highly commended.
- 2003 - Group Exhibition Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand.
