DEPOT Artist

Sarah Jane Smith

“I have been painting for over 30 years. I started to get lessons, by an accomplished artist, Jilda Gordon, after a life saving operation when I was 17. I have kept developing my art, through taking drawing and painting lessons online and in person. I attended The Art classes at Hong Kong University where I spent four years of my life in my late twenties. More recently I attended a Masterclass in drawing and painting after the Bargue French School of Art.
Most recently I have been drawn to the lively seaside village of Devonport. I started capturing the essence of Devonport over a decade ago, beginning my journey with a porthole view of Devonport village from Whare Toi, Mount Victoria and Huia Street. I use gel ink and watercolour wash to capture the unique charm of Devonport. Today I also create larger acrylic pieces, more dynamic pieces that embody the energy and spirit of the community and the period buildings.
Through my acrylic paintings, I capture the interactions between people, buildings, and the natural environment, weaving together stories of daily like in Devonport. Each piece invites viewers to feel the pulse of the village, celebrating the rich tapestry of relationships and experiences that define this beloved place. I am always on the look out for unique compositions that take in the sky, the old villas and the village sometimes with people going about their daily life.”

Previous Exhibitions
Hong Kong Lantau Island – ‘Lantau from an Expat’s Eyes’ – 2008
Nathan Homestead – ‘Coming Home’ Sarah Smith – 2011
Auckland Watercolour Society group exhibition – 2010
Whangarei Maritime Festival – ‘Sails’ Exhibition – 2023
Takapuna Boat Club – ‘Auckland Sails’ Exhibition – 2023
Whare Toi – ‘Creating Devonport ‘ – 2024

Currently available works by Sarah Jane Smith