Paula Kerslake

I am a contemporary abstract artist who has called Blenheim home for the past six years.

My art practice combines a variety of mediums, including painting and experimental techniques unified by an intuitive approach. Working in acrylic and mixed media, I use bold dynamic brushstrokes and irregular textures, embracing the way paint can hold both energy and stillness at the same time. My practice explores the balance between control and spontaneity, where imperfect moments become unexpectedly beautiful.

My artistic journey is a mosaic of experiences, from the serene landscapes of Marlborough to the cultural depth of Japan, where the disciplined art of calligraphy subtly influences my approach. This global perspective, combined with a Diploma in Art and Creativity, has shaped me into the artist I am today. My work has been chosen as a finalist in multiple art exhibitions and reviews, and it is featured in public and private collections across New Zealand and overseas.

An enthusiastic advocate for the arts, I strive to create spaces - whether in my home art gallery or through teaching -where art becomes a catalyst for conversation, reflection, and connection. I believe in the transformative power of art to move and unite people.

Rather than offering actual narratives, my paintings create room for contemplation, encouraging each viewer to bring their own experiences and interpretations to the canvas. I hope my paintings provide a moment of calm, curiosity, or connection to abstract expressionism – whatever the viewer needs in that moment. Contact me to arrange a time to visit my gallery and studio to experience my world of contemporary art.