Liz McAuliffe Painter Carver

 

Liz McAuliffe is a Female painter & carver living in New Zealand.

Born in Napier, New Zealand, in 1962, I have spent many years in the Hokianga – originally in the bush clad hills of Waimamaku and now overlooking the harbour at Motukaraka/Kohukohu.

I have always been inspired and intrigued by natural forms, and have an enjoyment of working with wood and a love and desire to work with my hands, this has been directed into my career as an artist.

Initially the lotus pod in particular gave me an almost endless inspiration for carving and has led me to exploring other pods, seeds and native flora.

Attracted to the plentiful, fertile shapes in nature I take delight in replicating their individual forms. I am constantly researching and adding new works. 

In my sculpture practice I aim to give a sensual experience as well as a visual one, so form and surface are an integral part of my art works.

I work most days – using the mornings for heavy carving when my mind and body are fresh, saving the afternoon and evenings for contemplative painting,  bookwork and research.

I started my art training in 2006, attending a specialised 1 year visual arts programme under the tutelage of artists, Sue Daly (painter), Dr Glen Hayward (sculptor) and Andrea Daly (jeweller). I then continued with a Diploma in Applied Arts in 2010/11, still working with the above tutors as well as Harriet Stockman and Maree Wilson.

I have participated in group and solo exhibitions regularly since 2006. My art is in national and international collections, including Italy, Denmark, Germany and Australia.