Kristina Berends

Kristina Berends (BDVA) is fine artist based in Auckland, New Zealand. Her practice explores the expressive and connotative power of several combined forces: Surrealism, Photo Realism, Religious Symbolism, Graphic Design and Tattoo Art. Each painting is influenced by her personal interest in Christianity, tattoo imagery, tongue-in-cheek humor, collaging techniques and Salvador Dali’s concept of the ‘Paranoiac-critical’ method. The overall function of this work relates to the modern-day issues of self discovery, self expression, identity and freedom of speech. One theoretical context in particular stems from the social debates and concerns regarding the transformation of Christian Religious Symbolism throughout history and the stereotypical perceptions attached to these symbols when they are integrated into contemporary fine art. It is here within this contentious territory that Berends’ work references her opinions and beliefs in relation to what she calls ‘socio-religious hypocrisy.’ The juxtaposed and unusual imagery originate from pre-planned collages created out of National Geographic cut-outs, printed photographs, as well as influences from old school matchbox labels, early soviet propaganda posters and pre-digital posters fro...

Bachelor of Design & Visual Arts (2012 Graduate)

King's College Art Show 2019
November 8-10
https://www.facebook.com/KingsCollegeArtSale/

Kristina Berends' Solo Exhibition:
'The Eye That Mocketh'
Pierre Peeters Gallery - 251 Parnell Road, Auckland

2012 Unitec Grad Fest:
Graduates from Unitec Visual Arts Department