Doug Hart

I have had the opportunity to be involved in the education of children and adults regarding art, technology and science throughout my career in the UK. Now I have the realisation that I can indulge my passion for creative arts and photography in my retirement. My previous experience with art groups includes updating the website for Christchurch Arts Guild in Dorset and being on the committee for Ringwood Arts group in Ringwood, Hampshire organising demonstrations by well-known artists. I have always had a fascination with form and line and creating work in a variety of styles and materials. Having recently moved from the UK (after successfully exhibiting my artwork), to settle in Dunedin with my family and grandchildren, I have found a wealth of stimulating subjects in the locality. The Dunedin district has such a treasure trove of scenery, wildlife and history which has led me to paint the landscapes and invent quirky scenes regarding certain aspects of it.
I mostly work in watercolour to capture local scenes but a lot of my paintings incorporate photography and sometimes handmade textured papers. My artwork is inspired by structures, whether they are buildings, mechanics or botanic lifeforms. I seek to expose the components and materials that constitute man made constructions, whilst with botanic subjects I look at form and texture, extending the points of stems, petals, leaves and wood. As a member of Peninsula Open Arts and Otago Art Society, I have been warmly welcomed into this thriving creative community.