Russell Hollings
RUSSELL JOHN HOLLINGS
BORN OTAHUHU, AUCKLAND 1948
Russell grew up in Papakura and from an early age had a strong interest in art. In his early years he began to submit ink drawings to the New Zealand Herald and The Auckland Star's children’s section.
In his teens Russell joined the local Papakura art group where he was encouraged by some of the more senior members of the club.
At the age of 19 Russell won 1st prize in the R.J Barnett art competition in Takapuna.
Russell received some excellent tuition from Ida Eise OBE at the old Auckland Society of Arts and her guidance and knowledge of tonal values, composition and draughtsman ship proved to be beneficial in his early career and set him on the right path.
Russell has been painting for over 50 years and had more than 35 solo exhibitions as well as numerous group exhibitions.
Russell has travelled and painted extensively in many countries. However, In the past few years he has painted several times a year in Central Otago
MY PAINTING METHODS
Russell works from observation and experience and plein air work is his first love. He likes to do these in the one sitting to capture the elusive light in the moment of time.
I draw and paint what inspires me says Russell, and i hope to confirm that what I paint is of lasting importance.
Translating a subject into paint is challenging and often mysterious. Russell says. He looks for immediate response and begins to assess the composition and the tonal qualities and coming to terms with the colours. Light and shade being paramount, the key to it all really.
Russell works principally in oils and paints on prepared boards, canvas boards and stretched canvas.
All his still life/studio paintings are done entirely from observation where he sets up the still life and then leaves it. He can then spend numerous sessions on that work over a period of time. Always at the same time each day and in a similar light.
Russell also works in Gouache, watercolour, mixed media, acrylic and pastel and uses a variety of Artists quality papers and matt boards.
Russell also has an interest in NZ studio pottery and vintage collectables. Over the years he has built up an extensive collection of paintings from Artists he respects and admires.
RUSSELL HOLLINGS
SEPTEMBER 2021
