Helena West

To see all of Helena's artwork click here

I am from Whangamatā. I studied Media Arts, specialising in Graphic Design and Contemporary Art. I began using watercolour to gain an understanding of colour theory, fluidity, and unpredictability. I have since transitioned to oil painting and am enjoying evolving my techniques and media through each piece I create.

Each painting is a capsule of feeling, love, gratitude, lessons, and hope, interpreted in whatever way feels authentic.

My art is the feeling you would have if you were dancing in the clouds. For some, being in the clouds feels like kissing a rainbow. It can also feel like you’re on a picnic with your five-year-old self. To others, it feels like your heart is buried deep in the earth, you can feel it beating through your whole body.

Everyone deserves to be in the clouds. Through our art, we hope people can be. Connection can go a long way; by creating connection, we can live more mentally and physically fulfilling lives. I started painting to connect with people’s emotional ecosystems—through art, feeling, and perspectives—to create positive change and growth.

50% of all profits are donated towards funding a St John ambulance for Aotearoa. This will be the first of many projects to give back and connect our community.