Biography

Rieko Woodford-Robinson

Photograph by Brian Culy

Rieko Woodford-Robinson

Rieko is best known for her detailed portraits of anthropomorphic creatures, usually animals or well-loved toys. A self-taught artist and illustrator, she was born in Japan and has lived in Wellington since 1999. Her first exhibition was held in 2010, followed by several solo shows and group exhibitions in Wellington and Auckland. Every one of her solo shows has sold out.

Rieko’s work is influenced by Pop Surrealism and the Old Masters. Aesthetic elements of Japanese pop culture such as kawaii (cute) also appear in her paintings, finely balanced with melancholy and knowing humour. Rieko’s subjects seem to be a little reluctant to reveal their stories, and often inhabit fairytale settings that evoke childhood fables. Her paintings provide a small but intriguing window into the lives of her characters.

Rieko is represented by Black Door Gallery in Auckland and her limited-edition giclée prints are available exclusively from Eyeball Kicks Gallery in Wellington.

Exhibitions

  • 2018

    Aotearoa” Warwick Henderson Gallery, Auckland, 2 - 20 October

  • 2016

    Portrait Animalia” Warwick Henderson Gallery, Auckland, 4 - 22 October
    Creatures” Group show, Roar Gallery, Wellington, 5 - 31 May

  • 2015

    Animalia” Eyeball Kicks Gallery, Wellington, 12 - 24 June
    Pencil Pop!” Eyeball Kicks Gallery, Wellington, 2 - 16 October

  • 2014

    Deep in the Woods” Expression Galley, Upper Hutt, 3 May - 6 July
    Grimm Exhibition” Group show, Kina NZ Design + Artspace, New Plymouth, 7 March – 1 April

  • 2013

    Hunters - a way of life” Arthur’s Cafe, Wellington, 12 November - 8 December
    Circus” Group show, Roar Gallery, Wellington, 7 - 3 February

  • 2012

    The Wolf and the Fox”, Thistle Hall Gallery, Wellington, 4 - 9 December
    Pirates” Group show, Roar Gallery, Wellington, 3 May - 2 June
    Portrait Collection”, Deluxe Café, Wellington, 23 April - 5 May, 2012

  • 2011

    Curious Nature”, Thistle Hall Gallery, Wellington, 28 November - 4 December

  • 2010

    Imaginary Creatures” Deluxe Café, Wellington

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