Tauranga artist Angela McKenzie makes it clear I won’t be coming to see her work in her studio, it’s her very private creative sanctum. That’s no drama as I enjoy talking with Angela as she and Lightwave Gallery directors Ken and Karen Wright hang additional works by Angela in one of the gallery sections. Angela is a formally trained artist who may be known to many in her former part-time role as Curator and Arts Adviser with Creative Tauranga.
Among the works brought into the gallery today are four different sized ovals. They are all characteristic of Angela’s more recent works – abstract colours with a high, resin sheen to finish. One or two have an art nouveau flavour to the abstraction. Others an almost 60’s fabric design pattern feel. They are set against the detailed (but coloured and high sheen) portraits also created by Angela.
Full-time artist Angela tells me she has an established daily work routine. Like any working woman and parent she also works around her home and family commitments. I love it when she says “she does the domestics, in between”
I ask Angela how she applies the high sheen – it’s painted on and therefore there is an almost 3D effect as the surface is actually textured not completely smooth. Ever practical I ask how to keep the images high sheen. No chemicals merely wipe and buff with a clean soft cloth.
Another example of Angela’s colourful abstract, high sheen work can currently be seen at Gallery 59 on 9th Avenue, Tauranga. Angela has donated one of her works to the local Breast Cancer Trust annual fundraising calendar and art auction.
There is also an example of Angela’s work and an artist’s statement on the Creative Tauranga artists gallery site. Angela can be contacted at artist.angelamckenzie@gmail.com or visit www.angelamckenzie.com Mobile Phone 027 430 2880 You can also see Angela’s work at the Lightwave Virtual Gallery www.lightwavegallery.co.nz
Rosemary Balu
