CRISP: A New Era for Taranaki Artists and Musicians!
Hello Creative Souls of Taranaki!
Are you ready to be part of something truly pioneering and inspiring?
We are thrilled to introduce CRISP, a groundbreaking digital magazine crafted exclusively for the vibrant artists and musicians of Taranaki. Taranaki’s music and art scene is humming with energy, but we know the high costs of printing and design have made it challenging for many to showcase their talent.
That’s where CRISP steps in!
We’re here to revolutionize how our creative community shares its passion and innovation. Imagine a platform where your work gets the spotlight it deserves, without the burden of traditional expenses.
CRISP is more than just a magazine; it’s a movement. A movement to elevate, inspire, and connect like-minded artists and musicians who are passionate about making a difference. Being part of CRISP means:
Inspiration:
Surround yourself with the freshest and most inspiring work from fellow creatives.
Innovation:
Contribute to a cutting-edge digital platform that redefines how we experience art and music.
Community:
Join a supportive network that celebrates and amplifies your unique voice.
We’re excited because we believe in the power of community and creativity.
We believe that together, we can create something truly extraordinary for Taranaki.
So, if you’re passionate about being part of an inspiring journey and want to contribute to a thriving artistic legacy, we invite you to join us at CRISP. Let’s make history together. Let’s make Taranaki shine.
To contact us or nominate an artist that you believe deserves recognition contact debbie@eqube.co.nz.
Debra Quaadgras
Crisp Taranaki
Join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/crisptaranaki
Musicians:
Follow our amazing musicians on social media to keep up to date with their songs, gigs and careers. The majority of the songs can also be found on Spotify, Bandcamp and/or YouTube. (Links in the articles) 4 Taranaki Singer Songwriters
Smokefree Rockquest – Jenny Feaver
Artists:
Follow our talented artists on social media to keep up to date with their latest work. (Links in the articles)
Taranaki Singer Songwriters are a passionate community of songwriters, musicians, audience members and arts supporters. They are all about the vibrant flow of original music throughout Taranaki. Their mission is to develop and promote original music in Taranaki for the wellbeing of all.
Toi tu, Toi ora.
The Taranaki Singer Songwriters Trust is on a mission to keep developing the original music scene in Taranaki into the future. The Trust formed in July 2023 and grew out of the success of their founding event Singer Songwriters New Plymouth, which began as an open-mic night in 2006 at a local bar.
This event is still going strong nearly two decades later.
Taranaki Singer Songwriters is a monthly highlight of the Taranaki entertainment calendar and a testament to the passion of local musicians, audiences, and organisers who have kept it going for so long. It may even be the longest running songwriter event in the country.
The Trust is working hard behind the scenes to create even more performance opportunities for local singer songwriters, provide education and development and build opportunities for original music in the local arts and entertainment scene.
Taranaki Singer Songwriters are incredibly grateful to their foundation event partners New Plymouth Little Theatre, Manella Productions and Swamp Shack Studios and the many wonderful sponsors who support the Trust’s work to keep live, original Taranaki-made music flowing into the world.
Karen Clarke BLUES WOMAN
Karen Clarke is one of New Zealand’s fine homegrown indie blues women.
Karen has been refining her feels in the provincial music scene over the last 25 years. With hot new singles and two studio albums under her belt she’s well and truly earned her piece of the heartland acoustic music stage. It’s pretty clear from the get go you are in safe hands at the gig.
Karen’s power-packed performance is strong and emotionally direct. Her silky sometimes sultry smoky vocal over distinctive rhythm guitar commands regard. Firmly rooted in RnB, her original material skirts a range of blues styles with a rootsy, contemporary edge. You’ll detect a dalliance with jazz and alt-country too. Fans will enjoy hints of Nina Simone, Michelle Shocked, Amy Winehouse, Whirimako Black and Tracy Chapman.
Karen can bring either upbeat or ambient entertainment for festivals, bars, cafes, events and private functions. At her freest she weaves warm, intimate audience connection as the aroha seeps through her songs.
Mama’s got you!
June 2024 - Bruised & Wondering
Karen’s new release is so full of swag and attitude - a classic blues rhumba that parties like an “Amy Winehouse meets Bo Diddley” backstage affair! With Darren Watson producing and servin’ up the smokin’ hot, fangy guitar lines “Bruised and Wondering” arrived in time for Matariki.
September 2023
– Fine Line
Fine Line was significant in that it got Karen closer to her core sound - and it’s damned exciting! A kick-ass, triumphant, grindy, bluesy banger. Go to www.karenclarke.co.nz for
to Karen’s music and upcoming gigs and join her on Facebook @Karen Clarke Blues Woman
Moemoeā
Folk pop with a 90’s cinematic feel
Moemoeā (Sherrie Flanagan and Chloe Danz) met through their local amateur theatre group Opunake Players. Through this they began singing in a group Heatwave, doing various gigs and pre-show entertainment.
They both come from musical backgrounds with combined experience in live and recorded music. After a night at Singer Songwriters in New Plymouth they were inspired to collaborate together with some lyrics Sherrie had written alongside a melody/ composition Chloe put toward it.
Their first song quickly came together and they found an easy partnership, with Sherrie’s strength in writing lyrics and Chloe’s in composition/melody. Moemoeā’s music is folk pop in style with a 90’s cinematic feel.
Moemoeā have been in studio (with Sam at Rhythm Ace producing) over the past year and have now refined down to five tracks that they will release bimonthly.
Sherrie Flanagan and Chloe Danz.
by
August 2024: Burn It Down June 2024: Black Flicker
Photography
‘Monica Willson Photography’
New Zealand’s folk trio “Turkey The Bird” will remind you of the famous Margarita cocktail infused with a hint of “Simon & Garfunkel”, 2 ounces of “Mumford and Sons”, a splash of banjo and served on ice on a sunny day. Catchy folk songs with stunning rich melodies and effortless smooth lyrics. Songs that tell uplifting stories about love and life.
This uplifting band will hit you with beautiful three-part harmonies and toe tapping rhythms.
The bearded trio features Andre Manella from Switzerland on guitar, bass and percussion, Adrian Whelan from Ireland on guitar, bass and spoons, and Sol Bear Coulton, the token kiwi, on banjo and slide guitar.
“I am not going to lie, this is my new favourite band of 2021.” (Chris Chick, Muzic.net.nz)
“Songs that tell uplifting stories about love and life.”
“Injects hoedown-showdown fun, fun, fun and the harmonies shine like diamonds.” (Paul Cook, Joyzine) UK)
My Life
As the final teaser before their highly anticipated third studio album drops, this folk trio delivers a poignant reflection on living life to the fullest. With lyrics that delve into the ebb and flow of happiness, the mysteries of the future, and the beauty of everyday moments, “My Life” is a heartfelt anthem about making the most of every day.
Stone Wall Creek
Their most Bluegrassy song to date. It captures the serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Ngawi, a remote spot in the southernmost part of New Zealand’s North Island. Inspired by the picturesque rivers and creeks that Sol encountered during his stay, the song reflects the natural charm and peacefulness of the area. Ngawi, known for having the most bulldozers per capita in the world, adds a unique twist to the song’s backdrop, blending nature’s splendor with human ingenuity.
Watering Can
This uplifting track invites you all to embrace love, freedom, and authenticity. With heartfelt lyrics, “put some love in your watering can, take a trip to the south in the van,” the song encourages us to nurture our passions and let the winds of life guide us. Let “Watering Can” be the soundtrack to your next adventure, filling your soul with love and setting your spirit wild and free.
Lady Who
Too funky for folk and too folky for funk - that’s Sonic Delusion’s happy, funky & groovy indie pop.
In his boogielicious live performances, Sonic Delusion uses his well-worn loop pedal with an array of instruments to skillfully layer and create an irresistible sound that is bursting with more funk than folk can handle.
The vibrant Swiss-kiwi, high-energy performer, Sonic Delusion (André Manella) has played over 1000 live shows at venues and festivals across Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia and Germany over the past 10 years. “Sonic Delusion is funny, fresh and funky…a welcome breath of entertainment, joy, fun and smiles” Graham Reid - Elsewhere.co.nz
Deeply connected to their indigenous Maori roots!
The Mons Whaler bring their swampy alt-blues fuzz tones and tight velvet vocals to their signature neo-vintage sound. Their music will transport you to a time and place when the sonic vibrations we chose to listen to spoke directly to our deepest desires and unyielding need for self-expression.
There’s a myriad of infectiously sticky accents running through their catalogue of songs. From the wandering fuzzy guitar riffs and experimental keyboard sounds to the four part vocal harmonies and thundering backline holding the energising and dynamic rhythm section together.
There is a sense of common vision and creative discipline among the band. Everything that should be in this music is, and nothing more.
In a cultural sense, the band members are deeply connected to their indigenous Maori roots. They have broken the socialised stereotypes by writing and performing music typically outside their expected genre, furthermore bridging the gap between what is expected from what we see and what just works.
There’s a myriad of infectiously sticky accents running through their catalogue of songs.
2023
Won’t Let You Go
2024 Album: Hold My Gun
Featuring four brand spanking new tracks as well as other popular tracks Won’t Let You Go, Blood, Linger On, Online, It Ain’t on Me and Paper Heart. The Mons Whaler have been on a crazy journey with this one over the last year.
Step into the depths of the unknown and immerse yourself in the intoxicating sounds of Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie, a swamp blues/rock fusion band on a mission to redefine the genre. Born from the depths of inspiration and fuelled by a love for the blues, this group of talented musicians brings a fresh and modern twist to the traditional delta/swamp blues genres.
Hailing from diverse musical backgrounds, Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie infuse their music with a plethora of influences, ranging from soulful folk to gritty rock ‘n’ roll. Led by a powerhouse vocalist, their lyrics delve into stories of heartache, resilience, and the raw emotions that define the human experience.
Their instrumentation is a tantalising blend of traditional blues instruments and contemporary elements. Captivating guitar riffs resonate like the call of the wild, while their vocals weep and howl with an otherworldly allure. Supported by a rhythm section that grooves with infectious energy, their sound is a mesmerising tapestry of old and new.
Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie bring their performances to life with a captivating stage presence and unwavering connection to the audience, where the music resonates deep within your soul.
A swamp blues/rock fusion band on a mission!
Lost at Sea
Have a peep into the softer side of Courtnay & The Unholy Reverie. Lost at Sea is a song Courtnay wrote whilst grieving the loss of her father, but is for anyone who can identify with struggle and loss. There’s always hope though!
Mercy
The general tone of Mercy is quite dark, which is apt considering the vibes over the last few years. But there’s a cheeky message of hope hidden within. Courtny was sitting in town having some kai and listening to two strangers talk about the state of the world and how fed up they were with the constant stress of it all. It resonated so she applied her own thoughts and related it to humanity, specifically the push and pull between good and evil, good vs ego decision making, and how we ALL have both a little devil and an angel on our shoulder.
THE DOUBLEJUMPS THE DOUBLEJUMPS
(Kayleb Duckett)
“Bringing a fresh upbeat sound that rekindles thoughts of good times past, this band is definitely what you need and how you need it. The Doublejumps will leave you feeling better about the world we share.” - Chris Foreman
The Doublejumps are a three-piece DIY rock band featuring Kayleb Duckett on guitar/ vocals, Olivia Day on bass/vocals and Rodney Cruden-Powell on drums. The band are known for recording their music at home and making their own music videos.
Kayleb and Olivia bring a harmonious blend of vocals that define the band’s captivating sound and instantly catchy melodies. Backed by Rodney’s exceptional drumming skills, the band’s tight-knit chemistry provides musical excellence to their songs.
A fresh upbeat sound that rekindles thoughts of good times past!
The Doublejumps will leave you feeling better about the world we share!
July 2024: Goodbye Reflection
Featuring the new song Small Towns In New Zealand, with additional violin by Helen Griffiths.
Video available on YouTube filmed by Kody Feakins at the Pioneer Village.
2023: Asleep at Lunchtime
“The name comes from a poster I saw in my classroom at school when I was a kid,” Kayleb explains how a grammar poster featuring “asleep@lunchtime.com” was an example of how to use an @ symbol. This title captures the nostalgia that defines the album’s sound. The Doublejumps partnered with Italian indie record label Almost Halloween Time for this release and each copy features a unique, individually hand-painted album cover by label artist Luigi Falagario. The album was recorded at home by the band and a special mention goes to Chris Foreman at Swampshack Studio for his assistance in engineering the drum recording. Join Kayleb and the band
The Groundsmen are a 3-piece rock/punk group well known for their energetic live shows and quirky catchy punk inflected rock songs.
Bass player Scott Paddock is full of energy and an appropriate punkrock swagger and along with guitarist Shane Martin and drummer Rowan Carlyle, they always power their way through an energetic set of classic, no-frills, original punk inspired tracks that has the audience either on their feet or dancing in their seats.
Betsy and the Reckless bring a distinctly original sound influenced by the rhythm and blues Motown sound set in classic NZ dub grooves. The vocal tone is smoky, the rhodes is groovy and the band is tight.
Betsy and The Reckless is a 4-piece band; Betsy Knox, Jake Larsen, Justin Rangi and Rory MacDonald, whose style could be described as a RnB twist on Kiwi roots. The original music creator, Betsy Knox, founded the band in 2020 and has surrounded herself with a group of like-minded souls who each contribute to the completion and flavour of all original tracks.
Betsy and The Reckless are known for making a positive first impression; their no holds barred approach ensures it is a shared experience to remember. As a live band, audiences connect with the theme of the songs and Betsy’s smouldering lead vocals.
“A RnB twist on Kiwi roots.”
Photo credit: Jenny Feaver
Photography
After the release of 3 singles: Liar’s Debt, Ghost and My Baby Don’t Know, their debut album Salty was released in November 2023.
“I love this simple, white background design as it just allows Grace Elizabeth Art & Design’s octopus to shine! Sunflowers are my favourite flowers and I love how the octopus is huge in the vase!”
- Betsy
Follow Betsy and the Reckless on Facebook @Betsy & the Reckless
Country-folk singer/songwriter Liana Hart shares deeply personal sentiments by combining intricate vocal hooks & passionate, conversational lyrics, with finger-style guitar & delicate harmonica melodies.
With a background in musical theatre, Liana takes inspiration from acts such as Joni Mitchell, Fleetwood Mac and Jackson Browne, and is now known by many for her sweet country voice and heartfelt tunes.
Liana is appreciated for her ability to craft her innermost feelings into an art-form that touches hearts wherever she goes.
To be honest, I wrote this song back in 2018 when I was feeling pretty burnt out and depressed. I had just finished studying and moved to a new town and realised I felt pretty alone and directionless. ‘Oh’ is a song that is basically about how I had to confront all the darker aspects of myself because I was getting tired of my tendency to self-sabotage. My beliefs about myself meant I thought I didn’t deserve anything good, and my fear of abandonment and loneliness was so intense that I would push people away, aka abandon them before they abandon me. This song is close to my heart because I wrote it when I REALLY wanted to burn everything in my life to the ground, but instead I wrote a song.
This song reminds me of how far I’ve come but also of everything I still struggle with every day but keep inside. When people tell me they connect with the lyrics of ‘Oh’ it makes me feel like I’m not alone. It’s a song that confronts the idea that healing isn’t always pretty and can in fact be quite ugly. I came to terms with all my ugly parts while writing this song. I named it ‘Oh’ because it’s about all the things you realise in life that make you go ‘Oh’. Whether that be an ‘oh no’ or an ‘oh shit’, or an ‘oh thank goodness’
Releasing this song is a big deal to me because it makes me feel very vulnerable. I would say the best way to listen to it is alone, with a cup of tea in hand.
The story of ‘Oh’
2023 releases - ‘Oh’
A letter to myself, and to anyone who’s tired, burnt out, but trying to heal and get better. I wrote this song as a promise to myself that I wouldn’t fall victim to my own mind. Produced by Sam Johnson at Rhythm Ace and featuring my favourite fiddler Krissy Jackson - Music.
Don’t Ghost: A confession of adoration.
Your Eyes:
Seeing as the song is sort of like a letter I wrote to my dad, I really wanted my album art to reflect the feeling of writing a letter to a loved one. Huge thankyou to Evan Davies for capturing some beautiful photos of this setup for me, doesn’t it make you wanna sit down here in the afternoon sun and write a letter to a close friend or family member with a cuppa?
Massive appreciation to Mike from Eight Ball Pool & Darts as well for making up this beautiful rustic wooden surface for me to use.
The Most is Taranaki’s independent radio station proudly spinning the best of local and Kiwi music mixed with indie tracks from around the world for 30 years!
TARANAKI’S COMMUNITY RADIO ALTERNATIVE
The Most also features many volunteer hosted shows that cover a huge range of music genres and eras, from blues and gospel to reggae and dnb.
Broadcasting on 100.4 around the Maunga, 107.4 in Oakura, and streaming worldwide and beyond at www.mostfm.com.
Most FM also offers Taranaki’s free gig guide. You can upload your gig info on the website for free. Gig info is announced by hosts on our popular breakfast and drive shows daily.
The Most FM is operated by the Taranaki FM Trust, a registered charitable trust, and they can only continue operating with your support!
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Most FM by using the Give A Little donation page at http://givealittle.co.nz/org/mostfm
Remember listeners, start each day with The Most in your heart and a song on your lips. Also interviews, news, gigs, events, and all things Taranaki!
Start each day with The Most in your heart and a song on your lips.
Hi, I’m Crez and I have the privilege of starting each weekday morning with our Most FM community.
As the host of The Primo Breakfast Show for several years, I’ve had the joy of growing alongside our listeners. After returning from parental leave, I even introduced “Baby Beats” to the studioan exciting new chapter for us all.
Our show is deeply rooted in the Taranaki community, with a special focus on celebrating local and independent musicians. Each week, I sit down with our district mayor, MPs, councillors, WITT, Chamber of Commerce, artists, and community groups to bring you the voices that matter most.
So tune in, hang out, and kickstart your day with us from 7-10 am, Monday to Friday.
One
thing I love about making art is the freedom to explore.
I’m not a technical artist at all and sometimes my pieces get painted over or thrown in the wheelie bin.
I’m ok with that though - my art is like life - imperfect.
I very much enjoy seeing beautiful art works that are technical such as portraits and realism - they absolutely amaze me. My work I think is quite childlike - which I often joke about - however I still feel like a playful child inside.
I hope that viewers will look at my work and feel happybecause it makes me feel so happy to create it. Painting and colour helps me find the light!
Over the years I have internally struggled with what I think I should be to fit into society. At 50 I no longer feel the urge to follow that path anymoreI’m just me and feeling much freer for it.
70’s Child: I thought that my creativity had been lost until I relocated to Taranaki from England in 2006. It was being around the beautiful Maunga, people and land that helped me to find myself again after battling with my mental health and addiction. 70’s child is an acknowledgment to the decade I was born and the vibrant patterns of the 1970’s that I still adore today.
It reminds me of our small brick family home that we once shared in Essex, our wallpapers made of fabulous patterns, and the feeling of happiness. When I arrived in Taranaki I never thought I had a culture or a story of my own, however I found it under the Maunga.
70’s Child
(Showcased at Puke Ariki for the Taranaki Homework Exhibition, July 6th- 10th November 2024)
Screen Printing
This year I have been exploring screen printing including printing onto tea towels. My dad was a screen printer in the 1960s and told me that before he started his day at work he would drink a pint of milk to line his stomach. I don’t think the health and safety team would be too impressed with that nowadays, hehe.
Sweet Smell of Summer
I absolutely love bright bold colours. I started painting flowers following a trip to the UK where I was reunited with my parents after five years. It was such a special time and we went walking through the bluebell woods with Lilly, Mum and Dad’s Westie dog. After that time, my wife Sara and I had a little exhibition in Eltham called Eklecktic Joy, which included my early flower paintings and Sara’s woodwork.
Growing up in a small town in Taranaki, I am proud to come from a family of creatives. After earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in the early 2000’s, I explored various creative careers while also teaching primary school for over a decade.
In 2019, I welcomed my first child and this huge event prompted me to reevaluate my priorities. I realised that I wanted to spend more time with my family and pursue my passion for art more fully. So, I dove headfirst into my art career and I am so happy with where it has taken me.
I resigned from my part-time teaching position in October 2022 and the last couple of years have been such a fulfilling time. It has been an incredible experience to focus all of my energy on my art business and I am excited to see where this journey takes me.
I invite you to explore my portfolio and would love to hear from you.
Pet Portraits:
Immortalise those special animals and memories in a piece of art that will keep them in your home forever. Hand drawn with soft pastel, these portraits are such a lovely way to remember your special furry friend for life.
My Honey
Kiwi Kid
Who hasn’t caught their child in the act of something they know they oughtn’t be doing!
Born in Malaysia, Veronica Tee is a landscape pastel and acrylic artist inspired by the gift of nature, it’s everchanging faces and vibrant personality.
Veronica Tee
@veronicatkh
Veronica’s art journey has taken her many places, starting at the Malaysia Institute of Art and founding a mural company with her four best friends. Eventually, life led her to New Zealand where she became an art tutor.
In 2018, she became a member of PANZ where she went on to earn a Merit award in the Purely Pastel National Exhibition in 2019. Her artwork was even accepted in several national and international art shows.
Veronica uses the weather, seasons, and views that Taranaki provides as her muse.
Veronica Tee
Veronica Tee
I am originally from Africa, having lived mainly in Botswana and Zimbabwe. My art reflects the African colours I grew up with and the golds, coppers and rich reds from the African landscapes feature frequently in my paintings.
I have had no formal art training but come from a family of art lovers and being surrounded by art in the home must have had some subconscious influence.
The longer I live in New Zealand the more I notice my paintings change. Boats, cityscapes and rural landscapes have become a favourite. A leaning towards slightly more abstract work too.
I have learnt in art that there are no mistakes. Mistakes become techniques and beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Aurora: A wild beauty!
I’M IN:
I always paint with music on as it affects the way I paint. For this piece I used the beautiful soulful newer music from the Norwegian band A-ha. My grandmother was Norwegian and I felt their story related to my journey to New Zealand. The connection and similarities of the wild rugged coastlines and the people who lived by the sea.
New Zealander by choice, Celtic by descent, Indigenous in Spirit... I am from Irish and Scottish ancestry and originally from the North of England, where I was classically trained at Rochdale Art College. I am fortunate to have lived in beautiful New Zealand (Aotearoa) for many years and it has become home for my soul. I chose to follow my own creative path and allow my art to unfurl as it will.
I am inspired by the natural beautiful colour and spirituality that surround us all in this incredible world that we share. I love the rich arts, the proud history, and the vibrant cultures that surround me. Indeed, I am thrilled by the connections and interconnections of all peoples throughout the world and how our histories and legends combine to illuminate our path.
I mainly work in oils and acrylics on canvas, book illustrations and ‘Spirit Paintings’. These pieces are all sold but are available in various limited edition print formats and selected merchandise. I personally sign and number all prints.
I am also available for private commissions and happy to be contacted to discuss what the customer wants.
Tall Poppy
A celebration of the brave ones, the ones who stand tall in their own right and ignore the others that want to ‘cut them down’ to the size of the rest, who stand alone and follow their true path in life, giving permission for others to do the same.
I Am...
If we accept that we are all one; I am You, You are Me, what could that look like? Rising from the elements, an Androgynous being of all races, colours, beliefs and understandings. A being that recognizes the similarities between us all and embraces them, along with the differences.
I Am... US!
Lord of the Forest
The stag is a sacred animal to the Pagan Celts, who are my ancestors and believed to be the Lords of the Forest. The Pagans would give thanks to the animal for giving their life so that the people could survive and used all parts, not just for food. In this way they were honouring the animal’s sacrifice. In turn, I am honouring the animal and my ancestors with this piece of art. The White Stag were never hunted as they were protectors of the wild and believed to be the heart of the forest, belonging to the fae. They were the most sacred of all.
Unveiled
On the journey of self-discovery we often need to shed our present beliefs; removing layers of understanding and conditioning to finally unveil the true self. Throughout life, if we are fortunate enough we are able to do this continuously.
Lester Earl Artist
Lester Earl possesses a unique vision when it comes to his artwork. Rather than focusing on the meticulous details of a landscape, he is more interested in capturing its essence and character. His landscapes, described as expressionistic, are an amalgamation of both his imagination and real-life observations. Instead of presenting a literal interpretation, Lester’s paintings serve as an emotional and intuitive reflection of what he perceives and experiences. His aim is twofold: to immediately draw the viewer in and to keep them captivated even after repeated viewings.
A significant muse for Lester’s landscapes is Te Maunga Taranaki. For the inhabitants of Taranaki, this mountain isn’t just a geographical landmark. It stands as a powerful, ever-present force, acting as both a testament to the passage of time and a reminder of the eternal. Its visage, subject to the whims of the everchanging weather, can transform rapidly, sometimes even vanishing behind thick veils of clouds.
Looking Down
Yet, just as the people of Taranaki have come to expect, the mountain always re-emerges, standing tall and unyielding, a timeless beacon for the region.
There Is a Place
Lester Earl Artist
Sheltered NP Harbour
“Pushing paint around is my happy place.”
Decades of doing just that has created a distinctive visual language. Key elements are bold and vibrant colours laid down with bold brushstrokes and corralled with signature black lines.
An enthusiasm for experimenting with processes and a daily drawing practice keeps me moving and enjoying my art making.
In January 2024 I was fortunate enough to move into a studio within the Gover Street Gallery and can now invite visitors into my working space. I enjoy creating very much and I hope to share that delight with the viewer.
Brenda’s work is on display at Gover St Gallery, 19 Gover Street, New Plymouth.
Flowers are often the chosen subject matter to express joy with a nostalgic vibe.
“Pushing paint around is my happy place”.
Krismarlianti, also known as Kris Donaldson, was born in Indonesia and moved to New Zealand in 2021. She started visual art in fashion design before illustrating her books.
Kris expresses ‘questioning moments’ in deep words and spontaneous marks on her paintings. Both her writing and paintings have a solid connection with her emotional experiences. It is passionate, energetic, and mesmerizing.
Krismarlianti grew up in a multicultural environment, which led her to a unique perspective on human life and condition.
Kris’s background motivated her to research human emotions and the meaning of life. She studied English literature, education technology and professional coaching in Indonesia and New Zealand. She researched the meaning of life and emotional intelligence to complete her studies.
However, she believes that her research led her to the visual art path.
Krismarlianti actively exhibits her paintings in Indonesia and New Zealand. She was recognized as a first-place winner of the Taranaki National Art Award 2022 and recently one of her paintings was selected as one of the finalists of NZPPA 2024 in Waikato. Her work is held in several private collections, both in Indonesia and New Zealand.
At the moment, Krismarlianti serves as a volunteer at the local community gallery because of her passion for art.
LANGKAH
IT IS PASSIONATE, ENERGETIC, AND MESMERIZING.
ONE IN A THOUSAND DAYS
Jenni Corbett Art @ Jennicorbettart
“My desire is that my paintings bring pleasure and joy to the viewer.”
I have also created a group of characters called TheTouristBirds who feature in a lot of my paintings. Together they explore the world and have adventures. The goal is to have fun and encourage you to look at the world with different eyes. They don’t take life too seriously and all have unique personalities, but still get on together and support each other.
Scott is a sketcher in addition to being a carver, sculptor, writer and illustrator.
Fifteen years ago he founded a Taranaki group that has morphed into ‘Urban Sketchers Taranaki’.
Scott uses an old-fashioned fountain pen, and colours with Tombow pens washed with a water brush. He likens sketching to photography, just a slower shutter speed, and consequently the additional value of remembering every sketch location.
He calls travel sketching the ‘Esperanto of Travel’, as no matter what the language strangers will come up and talk, especially kids.
