Wānaka artist Sierra Roberts has attracted a national and international following for her vibrant artworks exploring perceptions of beauty and the female experience.

After graduating from university with a Fine Arts degree Sierra spent time travelling and working in Australia, Asia and South American which influenced her decision to start full time painting.

“I began painting properly in late 2017 after returning from backpacking through South America. Something started to shift in me in the latter parts of our trip particularly in Colombia. There was such amazing street art particularly in Medellín and Bogotá and I could see how much it had helped these communities and inspired people.”

“Back in New Zealand I knew I wanted to paint again and completed two portraits from photographs of my travels. They sold at a local art show and won the Locals’ Choice Award which was so encouraging.”

New Zealand native plants, birds, alpine environments and South American references feature in Sierra’s work.

“I am best known for creating bold statement portraits exploring perceptions of beauty, placement and belonging. I also create vivid photo realistic landscapes on commission. Mostly I work on original paintings and this year I am exploring the themes of  ‘placement, identity and belonging in Aotearoa’ incorporating New Zealand’s beautiful native flora and fauna.”

Limited edition prints are available online with five per cent of new release print sales donated to the Routeburn Dart Wildlife Trust.

“I am inspired by the human experience, our incredible surroundings and the feeling of being so small and insignificant in nature,” says Sierra. “I try to translate these thoughts through my work with the main message being how incredibly beautiful our world is if you choose to see it that way and inspire people to look after it.”

“My art career is a long slow process and I am not looking for overnight success but rather to build meaningful connections with people and keep challenging myself within the work itself.” Commission enquiries please email: hello@sierrarobertsart.com