Anna Leyland is a contemporary New Zealand artist known for her distinctive work in painting. Through intricate pattern-making and symbolism, her art celebrates the rich diversity of Aotearoa, reflecting the inclusive social ethos of New Zealand.
Leyland’s unique style merges contrasting elements, blending masculine and feminine energies, natural forms with abstract thought, and simple concepts with complex designs. Her meticulous masking techniques and layered geometric patterns create striking optical effects, often enhanced by the use of metallic paints that add a sense of lustre and opulence.
Since 2001, Anna has exhibited in over 40 shows and has received numerous corporate commissions including for Nespresso, Auckland City Council, Orcon, and NZRSA. She has also contributed her art to charitable causes and high-profile spaces, such as The Haier Big Hoot NZ and the Sofitel Queenstown, where she painted a grand piano that later featured in Air New Zealand's 'Kia Ora' magazine.
In 2016, Anna was invited to exhibit in Melbourne’s renowned ‘White Night’, where her show was highlighted as one of the top five to see. From 2017 to 2019, she held three key exhibitions: 'Perception' and 'Formation' at Allpress Studio in Auckland, and 'Woven Intent' at Ora Gallery in Wellington.
Her work has been featured in respected media such as NZ Herald's VIVA, Paperboy, Remix, Denizen, Idealog, and Habitat by Resene. Represented in galleries across New Zealand and held in private collections worldwide, Anna has a strong national following and is now expanding her international presence. Notably, two of her paintings were selected for the New Zealand Contemporary Art Exhibition at Art Beijing 2020.
Anna’s art reflects her personal story and multicultural heritage of herself and her son—Fijian, Wallisian, Futunaan, Scottish, Hungarian, English, and Kiwi—expressed through patterns and symbols that connect with a diverse audience. Her work is a vibrant tribute to the beauty of cultural fusion in New Zealand.
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