A brief summary of Joanne's history as an artist.

NEW ZEALAND
In 1990 I attended Wanganui Community Polytechnic's 'Diploma of Fine and Applied Arts' - majoring in painting, ceramic and glass. Moving to Dunedin in 1992 I completed Otago Polytechnic's 'Certificate of Ceramics', an intensive one year programme of ceramic theory and practise.

Following this training, I embarked as a self employed artist, establishing 'Earthwares', a small business producing unique works of bone, ceramic and leather. I expanded my business to incorporate painting commissions for both commercial and private clients.

Of particular achievement was a large scale painting (3x10m) commissioned by the Manawatu Polytechnic in 1993 as a visual commemoration of 'The year of the Suffragettes and the Indigenous peoples of New Zealand'. With sole charge of the project, I held full responsibility for the interpretation of the Polytechnic's vision, translating their concepts into an art work which far exceeded initial expectaions.

EUROPE
In 1994 I left New Zealand to explore the art scene in London, joining various groups and classes including the 'Hesketh Hubbard Art Society' where I exhibited as a member of the Paul Mall gallery.

During my time in Europe I continued to accept commissions for artworks from various sources, some of these included: the design of a logo for the 'Celebration of the Senses' annual festival, the painting of stage banners and backdrops for the band 'Sun Circus', freelance illustration work for a computer graphics company, the design and painting of large murals in London and Ireland.

BACK HOME
Returning to New Zealand in 1999, I have been tutoring art while continuing to work and exhibit from my base in Wellington.