A talented Wakefield artist and busy mother of three is trying new things by entering her first artistic piece into the prestigious Tasman National Art Awards.
In its seventh year, the Tasman National Art Awards, hosted in Māpua, exhibits work from artists nationwide.
Each piece is judged through stages, many not making the final cut, until they are down to seven sought-after award’s winners.
“I thought I would give it a go, it will be a good experience,” says Natalie Cochrane, who for the first time ever has taken the plunge and entered a painting into the awards.
Natalie says she developed her art skills as a child.
“Dad is quite artistic and encouraged art a lot, mum was also a good supporter. As we were home-schooled, my parents were really involved in what my siblings and I were doing. Later as a teen, I got more serious about art. Since having kids, I have been doing a wee bit here and there.”
Natalie mainly creates oil paintings but also enjoys pencil and charcoal drawing.
“I recently joined the Wakefield Art Group which has been great. There is a set time and space for art each week, we share different techniques, styles, and mediums used, and problem-solve together,” she explains.
Natalie selected her nature-inspired piece ‘Towards the Light’ for entry.
She says she feels it captures a sense of calm that aligns with her tranquil personality.
Her artwork will be reviewed by distinguished selectors and judges, and she will discover if it advances to the final awards by 23 July.
