My creative journey has been a long and varied one – full of twists and turns – wonderful vistas, a couple of dead ends but ultimately an exhilarating ride – not that I am finished by any means.
The fashion world was my start – making wee haute couture outfits for my Barbie, which progressed into a fashion degree at AUT and a fun-filled decade in the fast-paced world of women’s apparel. This kindled an enduring love of colour, texture and fabrics which has transferred into my art practice to this very day.
Next came children – and the necessity of combining work and home providing the space for my love of “art creating” to be discovered. Painting professionally under my married name of Toni Eyre, I successfully sold and exhibited throughout the country.
Changes in personal circumstances prompted a shift in direction and a re-entry to the corporate world, this time a degree in Marketing and a career in the Hospitality industry ensued.
Which leads to the latest chapter – children grown, new freedoms, new name Toni Snell – has all encouraged me to re-launch my love of creating.
My vibrant images are shaped using a variety of mediums – painting, printmaking and collage – with inspiration found in the plants and objects that surround me in daily life. Being a magpie by nature anything can be collected and squirrelled away, waiting for the right art piece to give them life.
While my creating is predominantly driven by painting – I have also discovered Altered Art – finding beauty and a new purpose in the practical and mundane – my sardine tin dioramas being a perfect example, but I have many more ideas whizzing around my head – watch out for updates on my posts.
Having locked myself away for 6 months of intensive play and experimentation, I am now ready to show you all what I have been up to.
Take a look and let me know what you think.
Gallery Representation
The Corner Gallery and Gifts – Carshalton
Exhibitions/ Shows
2017
General Collective Show – Greenlane
Orakei School Art Exhibition