Soulful sound, iconic images and mixed media unite to celebrate Cantabrian strength

This month’s exhibition at Terrace Downs is sure to once again, attract national attention and compliment the strong art influence that is so unique and special to Canterbury.
Most successful artists have a common thread running through their work, some kind of unifying element or distinct style that gives their art its own flavor.

For Cantabrians Shelly Van Soest and Steve o’Neill, and local star, Kristy Trousselot this common element is quickly becoming mixed media and music.
The artists began creating works that reflected the strength of Canterbury prior to February 22nd and given the recent events that have rocked our home, they have fittingly created pieces that will be auctioned on the night that will be donated to the Canterbury earthquake fund.

Steve and Shelly have both created nationally recognized paintings that have inspired others through clever use of their individual and unique style.
They both use movement and texture in their compositions, to create a special ambiance quite unmatched and unique to any other in the mixed media category. Their works have definitely set the bar high for mixed media contemporary paintings and this is proved in their outstanding sale record.

Steve o’Neill, a self taught artist, has always had the passion to create art with a difference.
Heavily influenced by the combination of music & life, Steve will combine images from memories of times and places with music that provides a depth of subject matter to call on time and time again.
Although Steve has worked in a variety of media, he has found his niche in working with mixed media textures to produce art with a matchless personality and style.

His mixed media process begins with laying down a texture and basic color and then with careful consideration of his subject matter he methodically sets about letting the art create itself rather than controlling the outcome. The final result is a combination of what Steve loves the most; movement, texture and familiarity.
Steve’s artworks are all individual pieces yet cohesive as a collection, and that makes his art an ideal and preferred investment to art collectors in Nz.

Equally as distinctive in her style, Shelly van Soest creates art that is captivating and luminescent.
Shelly accurately uses gold leaf with many layers of texture, mediums and paint to create works that depict emotion and exude a feeling of warmth and hope when viewing her works.
Shelly believes creating is 'good for the soul' so she makes sure that she creates something every day irrespective of the media she uses.

Shelly has Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree and finds her life and the landscape in Little River so inspiring and creative that she surrounds her home with her passion for art.
It is that exact feeling of depth and passion that Shelly feels that certainly radiates from her creations and is perhaps one of the reasons why her art has always proved so popular.

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Both artist’s are long standing members of the New Zealand Art Guild, and have achieved national recognition through the opportunities provided within this special organization.
By combining their talents with Kristy Trousselot’s amazing voice this night of entertainment is set to be light hearted and most enjoyable for all.
The opening event is to be held on Thursday 10th March 2011 at 6:30pm.
To make a reservation please contact Terrace Downs Reception no later than Tuesday 8th March.
For any information relating to the artists or the event please contact arts director Rachael Inch via info@terracedowns.co.nz