Artist Testimonials
Read what members have to say about the NZ Art Guild
"Winning the inaugural New Zealand Art Guild's Art Awards has definitely lifted my career as an artist to the next level. Not only do I feel more confident about my work, but the prize money has allowed me to complete more paintings that have subsequently sold and won other prizes. The year's membership of the NZ Art Guild that came with the prize has opened up new and exciting opportunities, as well as much-needed contact with, and much-appreciated support and encouragement from, many fellow artists throughout New Zealand." - Elspeth Alix Batt, Multiple Award Winning Artist
I credit my involvement with the NZ Art Guild as being a launching platform from which I have established myself as a recognized contemporary artist. The supportive environment and great leadership at the Guild has allowed me to develop as an artist and the marketing and promotion ideas have proved invaluable.- Angela Laby, Multiple Award Winning Artist
"Just to be part of the NZ Art Guild Art Awards and being a finalist was such a buzz for me, sort of vindicated to me that I wasn't wasting my time painting. Since being in the guild I’ve had so much more confidence to enter more exhibitions, competitions and then organizing my own exhibition. Also the opportunity to show my art at the dedicated venues is great. Thanks so much! " - Trish Macready, Artist
I have found the NZ Art Guild to be the best arts organisation that I have belonged to. The Guild is constantly working for its members and provides the means and venues for many excellent exhibitions at a reasonable commission rate. I recommend the NZ Art Guild to any artist, beginners through to professionals. We all gain from membership - Janet Marshall, Internationally Renowned Nature Artist
I am so pleased I joined the Art Guild, I have never been so busy and directed with my painting as I am now. You really are for the artists and as an artist I do appreciate that, because for many reasons eg isolation, inspiration, networking etc it can be a lonely process doing it on your own, so its awesome to have an outlet and support that helps you connect with other artists and promotes your work. I think you do an awesome job providing all these opportunities, so I want to say a big THANK YOU - Pam Tapp, Artist
Having been a relatively established artist in my home country, I arrived in NZ not knowing a soul and having to begin the task of marketing my work all over again. Since joining I have had more interaction with fellow artists and have had the chance to exhibit my work at places which I would not necessarily have if I had approached these venues myself. Through their website, NZ Art Guild informs me of all opportunities throughout NZ and I find the articles and links very informative. If you want to take your art to the next level, it is really important to belong to a group like the NZ Art Guild. - Michele Courage, Artist
"I was extremely green when I did my first painting several years ago (never having touched a paint brush in my life till then) and I put most of my successes down to all the things I’ve learned from the guild, my only avenue into the art world…I’ve constantly devoured every piece of info on the and its given me the confidence to stick with my ‘dream’ of being an artist." - Julia Dungan, Artist
The NZ Art Guild has provided me with opportunities and connections that, living in small town New Zealand, it would have been hard for me to gain any other way. - Cath Sheard, Artist
Since joining the NZ Art Guild I haven't regretted it in the slightest. I decided to join because having the Web page for my art was a great and inexpensive way for me to have a place online to display work as I do it and build it up. You could even change your 'detail' paragraph and use it as a kind of blog if you wanted! It is a great way to have an online place to direct people to when you're out and about and someone asks you about your art-a simple link. And then there's the forum. To have a place to talk to other artists for advice and tips on everything from techniques and inspiration to even tax advice if you are trying to start to sell is wonderful. Even to chat with like minded people can inspire and relax your creative soul. The featured essays on art on the forum are also brilliant. – Mike Roberts, Artist
The NZ Art Guild helped me realise that Artists are all different and that there is an abundance of clients in the bigger world. It has helped me connect to others that are of similar mind in ways that local groups couldn't. I love the way the members of the Art Guild make me feel a part of something and it has provided me outlets for showcasing my energy nationally. I have learned so much and have opportunities to organise exhibitions that I would have never had before. The Art guild leads the field in the Artists world. It has provided me invaluable knowledge and substance! I would be lost without this resource! - Rachael Inch, Artist
I love being part of the guild. It is a great place to find all sorts of useful information about all aspects of art from techniques to awards etc. It also offers the perfect environment to interact with other members, to develop as an artist and to be part of a community. - Kirsty Black, Artist
When I joined the Art Guild a few years ago the first thing that really touched me was the kindness and friendliness of the artists. At the time I was still having to use a wheelchair a lot and mobility was a bit restricted...stairs etc were a challenge. When I went over to hang my painting not only did they hang it for me but offered to carry me up the stairs to see all the paintings on the second floor. That really touched me. The exhibitions gave me something to aim for when I felt too tired to paint and doing the collaborative art work was great as it made me think outside the square and work with colours I wouldn't have chosen. The results were exciting and encouraging. The ability to talk to other artists online and ask questions etc thought the Guild board is fantastic. It also keeps one up to date with any opportunities to exhibit work etc. Whatever your ability level or physical level the art guild accommodates both. Your ability will improve with advice, practice and encouragement. There was a stage when I always painted in bed as that was where I was 90% of the time and it made no difference to the finished product...lots of paint on sheets and bedspread...but that was small price to pay for the chance to do something that gave me so much pleasure and was a point of contact with some really awesome, very accepting people. - Wendy Matthews, Artist
"This guild is just bursting with opportunity, friendliness, and good help. I'm so glad I joined! Thanks!" - Silver Dunlop, Artist
"I am thoroughly glad that I have joined the art guild. I am really enjoying the forums and have been getting lots of inspiration by reading about and seeing what everyone else is doing. It's a great website." - Melissa Muirhead, Artist
"I must say the guild has been fabulous for me just starting out, very supportive and full of info, absolutely invaluable!" - Marimba Powley, Artist
“Sophia has displayed energy, positivity, and commitment as Manager of the New Zealand Art Guild. The organization continues to exude life and vitality, and I have no doubt that Sophia is the wellspring from which that life and vitality emanates.” - Ron Esplin, Artist
“The NZ Art Guild has grown from a group of people interested in painting to a professional platform which encourages and supports artists across New Zealand. The Website has also grown from a modest 'catalogue site' to a fully interactive site supporting artists in many way. I have been very impressed with its progress over the years and Sophia's drive and ambition in its growth.” - John Sargeant, Artist
“Sophia is a dedicated Artist and manager of the NZ Art Guild. She has consistently provided advice, leadership and motivation to me and all those who have worked with her. She regularly organises fund raises for charity and research and uses her art skills with great thought and adventure. Sophia is friendly and personable and always approachable. A woman of creativity and the ability to implement her ideas. - Glenda Paul, Artist
“Sophia has a dedicated passion to the New Zealand Artist Community. Her drive has led the New Zealand Art Guild into a whole new market and opened this group to global exposure. Nationwide events and now global challenges have helped to put the NZ Art Guild on the map.” - Melissa Manson, Artist
“Sophia is a very good Manager, organiser and enthusiastic Artist in her Management of the NZ Art guild. I look forward to meeting her in person some day" - Stephen Fuller, Artist
|