Artist Background
 
Andrew Wallace is a contemporary artist based in Alexandra, Central Otago, whose work is deeply infused with personal meaning, emotion, and spirituality. Born in Dunedin and raised there before settling in Cromwell in 1997, Andrew moved to Alexandra in 2012 where his artistic journey began to truly flourish.
 
Art was not always a passion for Andrew. In fact, during his time at King's High School, he actively disliked the subject. It wasn’t until later in life - after his conservation course work with the Department of Conservation came to an end - that Andrew was encouraged to explore art as a creative outlet. This encouragement came through Living Options, where he began painting, initially with skepticism but soon with growing enthusiasm and connection.
 
Art has since become a powerful form of self-expression, reflection, and healing for Andrew. Following the loss of several family members, he found painting to be a way to remain emotionally connected to loved ones who had passed. As Andrew puts it, "Art helps me stay connected. We don’t lose people; they just move into another orbit."
 
His approach is intuitive and emotion-led. He doesn’t plan what he’s going to create - instead, he allows the artwork to emerge naturally as he puts brush to canvas. “It’s like art from the heart,” he says, describing how he feels as if his creativity bypasses the brain and flows straight from his emotions to the canvas.
 
Andrew’s preferred style is abstract art, with an ambition to explore sculpture in the future. He favours bright, uplifting colours such as white, yellow, and pink - deliberately avoiding darker shades that might dampen the mood. His intention is to bring positivity and joy to others through his work.
 
One of Andrew’s most significant achievements was the inclusion of three of his artworks in an international exhibition in Dubai, which helped raise over $21,000 for disability-related support services in India. This experience was a turning point for him, reinforcing that his art could make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
 
Some of his favourite pieces include a painting of a butterfly and another of daisies, both of which hold deep personal significance and emotional resonance. His works are currently on display at the Tom Pryde Centre in Arrowtown where they are loved by many.
 
A spiritual and grounded individual, Andrew draws on memories of his close-knit family, his upbringing, and a deep appreciation for nature and inner peace. Themes of connection, joy, and remembrance are woven through his creative process. He hopes his art brings happiness, comfort, and positivity to others.
 
For those just beginning their artistic journey, Andrew’s advice is heartfelt: “Do your art from the heart. Don’t worry about what others think - just carry on with what you are doing. You’re on the right track.”