A precious collection

Sandra Killen is an avid collector of artworks by Sacha Lees, creator of NZ Post’s The Lord of the Rings 20th Anniversary collectables. Already a fan of Tolkein’s work and a collector of stamps and coins, when Sandra found out who was creating our The Lord of the Rings collectables, she knew she had to get involved.

Tell us about yourself - who are you and what’s your story? Hello. My name is Sandra. I am 61 years old, and I live in Devonport, Auckland. I am retired, and I live a peaceful beachside life. My joys in life are walking, swimming, and Sacha Lees’ original art and NZ Post coin collections, especially The Lord of the Rings by Sacha Lees.

What made you want to start collecting, and what motivates you to add items to your collection? Continuing my family tradition. My vision for collecting started as a child. I saw my father’s delight when he received post that increased his stamp collection. He spent hours of joy and serenity putting the stamps in his collection book. So, many years later, in his memory I now buy New Zealand coins and stamps.

What artworks or objects consistently attract you? I buy paintings by Sacha Lees. When I learnt that she was designing the Lord of the Rings coin collection I was ecstatic. When my two collecting loves combined - Sacha Lees and NZ Post - they became the most memorable collection days.

What draws you to Sacha’s work? I have been buying Sacha’s original paintings for years. I was delighted when she started designing the NZ Post The Lord of the Rings coin sets. She is an amazing artist! When I am captivated at home by her art, it enhances my mood, it takes me to another fantasy world. I can stare at every brush stroke for hours. Along with other commentators on the White Cloud Worlds books (edited by Paul Tobin), I feel she is one of the masters in fantasy art. She really catches the human form. Why are you passionate about The Lord of the Rings? We always had a The Lord of the Rings book at home when I was a child. The essence of The Lord of the Rings was always part of me. I have been watching the films for years. I can relate to the stories and the characters. I was delighted when Sir Peter Jackson and Sir Richard Taylor from Wētā put New Zealand on the map with their films. One of my holidays was at Weta Cave Workshop in Wellington, in 2010, where I met Mark, a staff member. I was there for hours entranced by the sculptures. When I asked, “Who do you feel is the best artist from The Lord of the Rings?”, without hesitation he brought up the name Sacha Lees. This is how I was introduced to Sacha Lees, and I have been a follower ever since.

What is your most prized The Lord of the Rings object? I have the 18-karat gold One Ring, from Wētā, which I am wearing in the photo, and the NZ Post 1kg coin designed by Sacha Lees. My favourite painting is Guardian by Sacha Lees.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about being a collector? My painting and coin collection focuses visitors inside the house. They are not just artifacts. They are motivation.