ARTIST BIO
ELISE DE SILVA
Elise De Silva is a full-time, award winning artist working out of her studio in Howick, New Zealand. Her primary medium is watercolour, although she does occasionally work with oils and acrylics.
Elise is strongly drawn to dramatic light and to water themes. "There's something dynamic and magical about water and it's light bending properties. Painting water is a constant challenge which presents an infinite amount of material," says De Silva.
Elise is a member of the Howick Art Group, Watercolour New Zealand and a passionate plein air painter. She has also done a number of community art projects.
If you would like to view Elise's work in person, please visit the Green Gables Gallery in Howick, Auckland. Or viewing of her other works can be arranged upon request. Commissioned pieces, art demonstrations and private one on one classes are also available.
NEWS
BEST IN SHOW AND FIRST PRIZE - PORTRAITS
My painting, Snorkeling, received Best in Show and First Prize - Portraits at the Howick Art Group Midwinter Exhibition this July. Our judge was Peter Hall. I was very disappointed to have covid and therefore not be able to attend. But I heard it was a great show and my congratulations to all the other winners.
FINALIST ADAM PORTRAITURE AWARD
and HIGHLY COMMENDED
I've had a few wins with my underwater themed paintings of late, this time with my latest work "Mum! Can we go to the Panmure pools?" This painting was a finalist for the prestigious Adam Portraiture Award and received a Highly Commended from the judges. Some of the judges comments included - Superb control of the medium of watercolour, and excellent observation skills. This is a biennial competition run by The New Zealand Portrait Gallery in Welllington. You can see the winner of this award and all the finalists here.
WINSOR & NEWTON SUMMER COMPETITION
I was thrilled to receive 2nd prize for my painting Swimming in the Waitemata in this competition run by Watercolour New Zealand.
Judges comments: A show stopper and an amazing work of art with a great depth of colour and realism. This is a well executed portrayal of a girl swimming on a bright sunny day, picking up all the nuances of the water and light reflecting off it.
You can purchase this fully-framed painting from The Art Lounge, Howick, Auckland +64 27 236 5366
PEOPLE SAID
AYALA, TUTORING
I’ve been really enjoying my online lessons with Elise. She is warm and encouraging, as well as clear and informative. It’s a lot of fun to work on paintings together and see my skills develop. Thanks Elise!
COMMISSION
Elise was amazing! She helped me decide on the perfect photo to paint for my niece and her fiancé as a wedding gift. When I saw her final work it brought tears to my eyes. She is talented, professional, very caring and I look forward to working with her again!
PURCHASED PAINTING
The painting was even more beautiful in person!! The artist/seller was wonderful in answering all of my questions quickly and packaged the painting with such care. Thank you! I highly recommend!!
