Simon Raine
Originally from Southampton in the UK, I moved to New Zealand in 2007, and now, I call Aotearoa my home. As a visual artist, I feel deeply connected to this land, allowing its beauty and spirit to inspire my work. I relish the materiality of paint and the joy of applying layers of colour to a surface, watching images emerge from abstract collections of marks and gestures.
For me, art is a process of discovery—an exploration of thoughts, emotions, and questions that arise from everyday life. I invite viewers to step into my world if only for a moment, to share in my vision and experience the richness of our shared existence.
My creative process often begins in response to the evocative power of art, poetry, or music. I draw inspiration from the land and ocean at my doorstep. The changing early morning light and the dramatic weather of the West Coast profoundly influences my art. This approach leads me on a journey without a predetermined destination; the imagery, colours, and materials transform organically, shaped by the essence of each piece. As I create, layers of meaning and narrative unfold, revealing the more profound stories woven into the fabric of my work.

