Ian Hamlin- Marlborough Sounds (Landscape)

Born in 1960, Ian received no formal Art training after Fine Arts Preliminary level. Opting to paint full-time rather than attend Art school, he held his first exhibition at the age of 18, every painting sold from his first show and repeating the feat the following year he has continued exhibiting successfully ever since.

Living at various times in Wellington and the Marlborough Sounds he exhibits in major galleries throughout the country and the UK. Ian has spent some time painting overseas with considerable distinction and has held exhibitions in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Although predominantly an oil painter, Ian also works in pastel and watercolour. His paintings are well known for their attention to detail whether in panoramic view or intimate study. Variety of subject has been a feature of his work, ranging from Realist, verging on the Surreal to a more Impressionist painting style the effect of light and atmosphere are the major focus.

Since his first show in 1978 he has held over 30 solo exhibitions and his work has also featured in several calendars, prints and publications.

Ian's work has been keenly sought by both private art collectors and corporate concerns. He is represented in private collections world-wide as well as in major corporate collections. He is an 'Artist Member' of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts, and currently the Vice President.

Ecological themes have always dominated his work and they also feature prominantly in his life as he restores a block of land in the Marlborough Sounds back to native forest. The implications of this intensely personal connection with the land have become a major feature in his work.
 
"We are the custodians of an amazing planet of diversity and grace. As a species upon it we have not always covered ourselves in glory; but through the highlighting of small details of the Earth's beauty I hope to inspire the belief in it's treasure" Ian says.