STEVE MOASE
Award winning artist, Steve Moase, is based on New Zealand's beautiful Tutukaka Coast where he gets much of his inspiration. His seascapes, coastal landscapes and intricate bush drawings capture the spirit and uniqueness of his subjects.
His work sells internationally and is represented in selected New Zealand galleries and in collections in New Zealand, Australia, the United States, Asia and Europe.
THE SPIRIT OF THE COAST SERIES
"The inspiration for this series of paintings is my great love of our local Marine Reserve - 'The Poor Knights Islands' - and the special ecological values of the Tutukaka coast. I have been living on the coast for many years now and have been sketching and drawing continually. With this body of work, built up over numerous trips to the Poor Knights Islands, I have brought together this exhibition from all my experiences above and below the water."
Steve's study of local history and New Zealand's Tangata Whenua (indigenous native people) has helped him to appreciate their significance and the importance of Maori culture to the past, present and future of these islands.
"My aim with these artworks is not only to portray the beauty of the Poor Knights and the Tutukaka Coast, but also to draw strong attention to the fragility of our natural heritage and the threat that it faces from the continual onslaught of 'human impact'. Marine reserves are the first step in redressing the balance and we are blessed to have 'The jewel in the crown', the Poor Knights Marine Reserve, in our district."
ARTIST'S PROFILE
Born 9-10-1950
Auckland, New Zealand
Grew up in Titirangi, Auckland and trained as a graphic artist at Design Link Limited - becoming head of Studio.
Attended Auckland Technical Institute Print Course and studied Calligraphy and Packaging Design during this period.
Travelled through South America before working in London and Ireland. Moved to Denmark and attended Copenhagen Intensive Language School. Furthered career by working as a graphic designer for Laebo Tegnstue, Kobenhavn for two years.
Became a freelance artist specialising in Illustration, Poster Design, and Calligraphy.
Moved to Northland on the northeast coast of the North Island in 1988 and now works from his home studio at Sandy Bay on varying work from illustrations to oil paintings, drawings and calligraphy using a variety of mediums including graphite, gouache oil pastels, acrylics and oils.
Chief designer for Whangarei District Council's 'Time line Project" - a unique series of over one hundred bronze plaques that tell the history of the district. The plaques are located in the town centre and continue to attract tourists and locals alike.
Served on the Whangarei Community Arts Council for 6 years.
Worked on a number of environmental projects for government agencies, as well as special commissions for corporations and private individuals.
Now specializes in distinctively New Zealand Art, featuring the country's rich heritage of flora, fauna, coastal landscapes and bush scenes.
Has exhibited in a number of group exhibitions and five solo exhibitions.
"My great love of our natural heritage was fostered by growing up in the bush and roaming the wild west coast of Auckland. I now love to try to capture that unique New Zealand spirit in my Art."
INTERESTS:
People
Art
Music (plays Guitar Mandolin, Flute and Ukulele)
Natural History
Snorkelling
Gardening
Travelling
Single Malt and good Brandy
All images © Steve Moase, 2007, 2008 - All Rights Reserved