Art For Art’s Sake

Last year, we had so much fun covering Dunedin art exhibition openings and promoting local artists. We were blown away by the exceptional talent and diverse styles. Here’s a selection of their work …

Painting of Di Lusso bar by Craig Freeborn

‘The Vibrant Port Chalmers and Portobello Communities’ by Alan Haig

‘Egg Cup’ by Nicola Hansby

‘Clownfish and Anemone’ by Anthea Ibell

‘Untitled’ by Phil Madill

Bus shelter, Company Bay, painted by Daniel Mead: a tribute to John Noakes

‘Generational’ by Abby Smith

‘The Sun Is But A Star’ by Franky Strachan

‘Feathered Friends’ by Mary Thompson

Unsettling Spaces, Alleys and Keg Parties: Paintings by Dunedin Artist and Canvas Maker, Craig Freeborn

Visiting Craig’s studio is always an adventure. His paint-splashed walls are covered with posters, canvases, tools and paintings, and it’s not long before you find yourself completely absorbed by his art. Craig’s most recent collections ‘I Went Out Walking’ and ‘Hyde Street Reflections’ capture a darker side of Dunedin. In his paintings of student parties and nights out on the town, he adds unsettling elements: blurred faces, emptiness and grey tones. This turns an ordinary scene into something much more sinister. 20^th Century painter Francis Bacon is an inspiration for Craig’s realism, use of colour and eerie characters. But, using Dunedin as a setting makes these paintings unique.

Craig’s studio

Work in progress

Craig’s workroom

Does this bar look familiar?

‘Hyde Street Reflections’ Collection

Craig wears jacket from Box of Birds, Port Chalmers.

You can see more of Craig’s art at http://www.craigfreeborn.com.