Reese Shuker

Above: Walk the coloured fields (Rothko) – 400x500mm – Acrylic

Unlearning Perfection: The Art of Reese Shuker

For Reese Shuker, the journey of an artist hasn’t been about finding the right lines but rather learning how to break them. After decades spent in the meticulous worlds of draughting and graphic design – an era where “copy and paste” involved physical pens and adhesive – Reese is now embracing the beauty of the “baffling” and the freedom of the loose brushstroke.

From Technical Precision to Emotive Expression

Reese’s technical background provided a masterclass in composition, perspective, and colour. However, it also instilled a habit of perfectionism that she has spent years intentionally dismantling. Her transition into painting began in earnest when her youngest child started kindergarten, providing the quiet space needed to experiment without pressure. What started as “fun” quickly evolved; within a few years, local exhibitions transformed her from a hobbyist into a recognized artist.

A Dual Influence: The Beach and the Greats

Based in Pāpāmoa, she finds her “daily reset” during morning walks on the beach. While her work is inspired by the coast, she doesn’t just paint the scenery; she paints the feeling of being there. This emotional grounding is paired with a deep academic appreciation for Art History. Her recent portfolio includes:

• Surrealist Re-imaginings: Works that channel the philosophy of René Magritte.

• Kiwi Classics: A New Zealand-centric homage to David Hockney’s The Big Splash.

• The Disintegration of Time: Inspiration drawn from contemporary artist Christian Hook, focusing on movement through “disrupted” styles.

The Award-Winning Process

Her method is a conversation between chaos and control. She typically begins with a free, abstract acrylic background – layers of drips and texture – before layering realistic figures that evoke nostalgia or personal memory.

This unique style caught the attention of the 2025 Tasman National Art Awards, where she was not only selected as a finalist but also received a prestigious prize. Judges praised her ability to capture “honesty and vulnerability” through the ethereal background and painterly figure.

Looking Forward: Loosening the Grip

Despite her success with high detail, Reese is eager to “put away the 00 brushes.” Facing changing eyesight, she views her future through a purer abstract lens – moving toward work that is freer and more spontaneous. She is also currently developing a series of interesting collages that combine famous historical artworks with her signature “weird sense of humour.”

Where to Find Her Work

A long-standing member of the Tauranga Art Society, Reese continues to exhibit in supportive, community-driven environments. Her work is currently represented and available through the Heritage Gallery in Cambridge, the very same venue that hosted her first exhibition 20 years ago.

Reese’s Tip for Artists: “If you’re not happy with something, don’t be afraid to re-do it. Be brave!”