Zarahn Southon demonstrates an impressive command of figure drawing and painting techniques with these new works. With a subtle yet deep tonal palette, he adds a reminiscent atmosphere to each piece – like capturing a passing moment at a long forgotten party. His characters are full of personality, charm and emotion, to which the viewer can relate.

Southon’s painting technique utilises such traditional methods as rabbit glue grounding, grinding of pigments, imprimatura (transparent glaze undercoating) and grisaille (mono-chrome painting in shades of grey).

His portraits are striking character studies of acquaintances, which also feature a self-portrait with rich texture and dark, brooding tones.

Since graduating with a Bachelor of Visual Arts from Manukau Institute of Technology in 1998, he has exhibited in many group exhibitions, and in solo shows since 2000.

He has also travelled extensively through Europe, which has provided him with a firm foundation in painting history and it’s parallel techniques.