Convergence II Print

Anna Leyland is a contemporary New Zealand artist (full-time since 2012). Utilising pattern making and symbolism, her works invoke conversations relating to the celebration of diversity and multiculturalism within Aotearoa – a hallmark of New Zealand’s social ethos. She has successfully exhibited in over 30 exhibitions since 2001. In the last 4 years, Anna has completed commissions for the International Company 'Nespresso' and locally, the 'Auckland City Council' and one of the top Network providers; 'Orcon'. She also has three ‘Artist Series’ with ‘Mr Vintage’; a well-known New Zealand T-shirt company. 2018 was a very busy year seeing commissions completed for The Haier Big Hoot NZ to fundraise for The Child Cancer Foundation and the prestigious International Hotel Sofitel Queenstown, where she adorned their grand piano as a feature artwork for their foyer. Subsequently her piano featured in Air New Zealand’s Kia Ora magazine. Articles and Interviews about her work have featured in the New Zealand Herald’s 'VIVA' and New Zealand Design websites including Remix, Denizen, Idealog and Habitat by Resene. In February 2016, Anna was invited to exhibit in Melbourne to participate in the famous ‘White Night’. Subsequently her show was listed as one of the top '5' shows to see on the night. Most recently she held her 4th Solo Show at Allpress Studio in November, 2018. Anna’s work now features in 8 galleries throughout New Zealand and has a strong national following. Presently she is working towards moving her work further Internationally. "My works are a reflection of my perception of life. I choose to see the beauty in everything around me; specifically the beautiful mix of cultures we have in Aotearoa. This is what I incorporate into all of my works, utilising pattern and symbolism. These are directly influenced by the multicultural heritage of my son and I; Fijian, Wallisian, Futunaan, Scottish, Hungarian, English and Kiwi. I have taken personal symbols and patterns from these different cultures and developed into my own, which then tell my story. My works are culturally diverse and inherently attract a diverse audience..."