Andrea Sexton

Mixed Media Picture Making

Andrea Sexton

Andrea Sexton is a mixed-media artist based in Orepuki, Southland, Aotearoa, whose work is deeply inspired by the rugged coastal landscapes of western Southland. Originally from Invercargill, she studied Craft and Design in Dunedin in the 1990s before training as a teacher, later spending 20 years at Aurora College teaching material and fabric technology to students from Years 7–13, including serving as Head of Department. Working across painting, textiles, mixed media, and soft sculpture since 1992, Andrea has exhibited widely and received numerous awards, including the LIT Art Awards, Provincial Pride Art Awards, and the Cowie Painting Awards. She now focuses on her own creative practice, community workshops, and mentoring emerging artists throughout Murihiku. Andrea also operates the Little Red Caboose Art Gallery, a distinctive studio and exhibition space overlooking Taewaewae Bay, where art, landscape, and community connection come together.

Mixed Media Picture Making

This workshop focuses on unlocking your inner artist. We'll have so much fun as a group, looking at a range of creative processes, including exploring a range of mark making with a variety of tools, drawing images, both 2-D and 3-D, practical colour application, and loads of creative picture making conventions. The biggest challenge I find at my workshops is that adults are anxious and lacking in confidence when it comes to getting an idea or vision to paper/ board/ canvas. Where do you start? What can I paint? What story can I tell? Will it be good enough? The latter being the biggest obstacle. Be prepared for a variety of activities that will be catered for both the beginner and those who have some idea of what they’d like to create. The key is letting go and not over thinking. A sense of humour is essential.

I will teach a range of starting points, easy and achievable compositions and unique outcomes. We will explore mixed media in the wider context, and epoxy resin will feature as a delicious finish.

A student from Andrea's Wanaka Autumn Arts class held recently said, "I would love for Andrea to return next year—she is an incredibly talented artist and teacher." She’s a bottomless pit with endless knowledge and passion for art. Loved it 200%’.

Check out me https://www.andreasextonartist.com

Materials that I will be bringing:

Painting and Mixed Media materials for further exploration, plus resin.

Materials for you to bring:

• Paper collage material (such as vintage wallpaper, book pages, black & white images)

• Acrylic paints

• Range of brushes

• Gold leaf

• Inks

• Pastels

• Pencils

• Gel Medium