See Dianna’s art in the mall
Work of experienced talent is available to view
Paekā kā riki artist Dianna Fary has a number of paintings on display in Coastlands, and the response has been amazing. The exhibition’s Jenna Philpott said public response to the exhibition of oil paintings by has been a “wonderful endorsement of her recent exploration of grander, sweeping styles of painting”.
A resident of Holtom’s Art Studios in Paekā kā riki since 2009, Fary found the recently renovated building offered enhanced light and additional space, inspiring her to “go big” and explore shapes of land on large canvasses.
“I feel like I am at a new beginning with a beautiful, restored building and surrounded by a vibrant new energy from other independent artists” said Fary.
Philpott said, “It is an evolution of her painting practice that only began at the age of 40, following an earlier career as a furniture finisher”.
“I am fascinated by texture and colour, Fary said.
“Texture comes from my furniture trade background.
“I did a trade in furniture finishing in 1984 and I was the first of only two women in New Zealand to do this trade at the time, completing a three year adult apprenticeship in Taranaki.
“I probably should have gone to art school instead, but I followed the family business of cabinet making/ joinery.”
Fary said her father taught his trade skills to her brothers and herself in his factory, which involved learning how to work the spray guns as well.
“Looking back, I have always enjoyed playing with paint and exploring how it works.”
Furniture finishing provided Fary with an opportunity to develop skills in wood treatment and maintenance as well as learning about different paints, dyes and spraying techniques.
This included wearing a full oxygenated body suit during her first pregnancy whilst working with highly toxic paint.
With three young children, Fary’s dining table doubled as her first painting studio as she followed a growing urge to just paint whilst the children were at school.
When fellow artist Alan Wehipeihana rented a garage space underneath the Holtom building, Fary joined as well and began to take her art practice more seriously.
“I first exhibited in the Creative Manaaki Art for Everyone programme in 2022 and to have the opportunity to exhibit these large works for the public to view and purchase is just wonderful.
“I wholeheartedly endorse the principal of bringing art to people in everyday settings because everyone benefits.”