Roger Morris

I consider myself an illustrator. For me visual artists are in two main categories: artists with a capital ‘A’, being those who are brave, clever, and who attempt to change the way we look at things: artists such as the impressionists and avant-garde abstract artists. Some turn out some extraordinary work which is beyond me. The other category are the small ‘a’s who are really illustrators, like me. I just don’t have the courage to produce abstract or experimental art and I would feel dishonest if I did. It is enough of a challenge just to capture the moods of the sea and ships on canvas. Excepting genuine primitive artists, I believe that any competent artist must have mastered representation before attempting abstract work and I do not consider myself there yet. Marine painting has its own demands. A bit like specializing in representing horses, one gets hauled over the coals if you get something wrong. Painting all ships, and particularly sailing ships demands a thorough technical knowledge which, I think I have. My technical expertise is inclusive of historical vessels as I specialise in maritime history and have published four books on the subject. A glance at the galleries on my website will show that the majority of my work is historical.
See Roger's work HERE



THE FASCINATION LIES IN THE DETAIL

INSPIRED ILLUSTRATION
Sally-Ann Davies was born in Shropshire, England and resides in Taupo. She started her journey of becoming an artist as a toddler, drawing on the newly wallpapered walls of the farmhouse she grew up in. Her favourite subject at school without doubt was art. She vividly remembers that the primary school she attended would reward you if you finished your work early, with going and playing in the craft corner. She remembers how amazing creations developed with the simple materials such as egg cartons and toilet rolls.

Carla McKnight ‘s favourite subjects are equestrian and aviation (warbirds). She works mainly in acrylic but has been known to play around with other mediums. “I’ve learned what works and doesn’t work by giving it a go and taking risks.” She finds the use of a ‘white-light’ lamp essential and uses a variety of brushes, sponges, scrapers, an airbrush and a spraygun. Carla tells us about herself . . .
