STEPHANIE THATCHER

HOW WERE YOU FIRST INTRODUCED TO THIS  TYPE OF WORK/ARTISTIC PRACTICE - AND WHAT  DID YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR EARLY  EXPLORATION OF IT?

I did a children’s book illustration night class with Sandra Morris in 2011, and my first book was published as a result of that course. I’d never used watercolours before, so the first book was a huge learning curve, and I’m still refining my technique and trying new mediums with every new book. 

HOW HAS YOUR WORK/ARTISTIC PRACTICE CHANGED AND DEVELOPED OVER THE YEARS? WHAT FACTORS DO YOU THINK AFFECTED THIS?

I used oils for many years, then watercolour, now I’m experimenting with abstracts in acrylic (outside of my illustration work). I no longer use oils because I no longer have a studio to work in. I love trying new mediums, new pencils and techniques.

PLEASE DESCRIBE WHERE YOU WORK FROM? WHAT DO YOU FIND SPECIAL ABOUT LIVING OUT WEST? 

I work from the kitchen table at home, which can be tricky when I’m in the middle of painting and it’s time for dinner. I really like working at the dinner table, I like being in amongst the family and having the kettle and radio close by.

I never tire of the view of the Manukau Heads as I come into Huia, and I love living so close to the sea. I enjoy watching the tui on the bird feeder, and the peace and quiet of Huia. 

WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT TO SEE WHEN  THEY VISIT YOUR STUDIO DURING OSW?  

I’ll have some original artwork from my picture books, plus some sketches, character models, books and prints for sale.

NAME YOUR TOP 5 SECRET SPOTS YOU LIKE TO  VISIT IN THE WAITAKERE RANGES? 

1. Karamatura. A fabulous bush walk up to a waterfall and pool that’s wonderful to swim in (but cold!).

2. Exploring the rock pools between Foster Bay in Huia around to Bryan Bay at low tide.

3. Whatipu. We go there often, the kids love running up and down the sand dunes or playing in the stream.

4. The swimming hole at Dam Road, Huia. The kids have heaps of fun jumping into the water.

5. Alfred’s Huia Store. Great for ice creams and fish and chips after a day exploring the west.

Photos by: Sarah Allen
www.sarahallenphoto.co.nz