Auckland artist Brenda Clews on her studio oasis and nature-inspired art

Auckland artist Brenda Clews has a deep connection with Coromandel and a strong desire to engage with nature daily, which are central to her immersive paintings.

For many New Zealanders, “working from home” brings to mind makeshift desks in unsuitable locations, laptops on laps, family disputes over space, and Zoom meetings revealing private living areas to colleagues.

In contrast, Brenda Clews’s workspace—a home studio she shares with her husband Peter, a freelance commercials producer—is a serene, light-filled haven of calm and color.

The Studio Space

Surrounded by stacks of her vibrant landscapes and pastel nature scenes, complemented by well-maintained vintage furniture and an array of paints, brushes, and vases filled with fresh and dry flowers, it’s an ideal place to work.

Although her studio is in the original part of their 1930s bungalow, Brenda often moves to the 1960s extension at the rear of the house. “The light is better there in the winter months. It has huge windows and beautiful light year-round. Peter keeps his work separate from the rest of the house, whereas I move around with the light—and my paints and mess follow me.”

Inspiration from Nature

On research days, Brenda’s “office” might be a tranquil beach or a park filled with inspiration. “We’re fortunate to live within walking distance of Cornwall Park. I spend time running and walking there—it’s crucial to have a nearby place to connect with nature. On weekends, I love taking my camera to the park with the kids and capturing photos.”

Many of Brenda’s landscapes are inspired by her time in Coromandel, a place she has visited annually since she was a baby. Her paintings are not accurate depictions of specific locations but rather an accumulation of places. “But they’re real in my mind,” she says, laughing. “Coromandel is where I slow down, take time to stop, pick up my camera, and mindfully observe nature.”

The Painting Process

Back in Auckland, Brenda’s photos become essential references for her paintings. “I have a vast gallery of photos to draw from.” Nature is a constant source of inspiration, and she never lacks ideas for paintings. “Even the same landscape offers hundreds of versions—different seasons, times of day, and lighting.”

She uses a mix of heavy-bodied and liquid acrylics, appreciating how different mediums create transparent layers. “My process involves layers, adding texture and marks. I love seeing textured brushstrokes—they have an honesty, and slightly awkward marks add character.”

Brenda finds painting calming and immersive. She burns scented candles and listens to music while she paints. Her color palette is inspired by nature, with the hues of the sky reflected in the land, water, and foliage she paints.

Flowers and Early Influences

Brenda considers flowers to be gifts from nature that she brings into her home. They feature prominently in her studio, both in real and painted form. “I find them incredibly uplifting. I haven’t had much time for gardening, so I rely on lovely friends and neighbors to keep me well-supplied!”

From a young age, Brenda has spent time sketching and painting. In primary school, she was always the first to volunteer to draw biblical scenes for the church. While traveling in her twenties, she always had a pen and journal. When she and Peter married, they couldn’t afford art, so Brenda started painting canvases for their walls, reigniting her passion for painting.

Balancing Art and Family Life

These days, Brenda schedules blocks of time around her busy family life. She works on her paintings throughout the day, seizing moments whenever she can. “I might add a few marks to a painting while heading out for the school run or cooking dinner—painting is always on my mind!”

Brenda finds painting meditative and calming. “It’s a chance to clear my mind and immerse myself in something that feels like a natural extension of myself.” Worries disappear as she becomes absorbed in the art-making process, contemplating decisions like choosing the right shade of green.

“Sometimes I forget to make dinner or do chores because I’m caught up in painting. But that’s okay—we can always have cheese on toast, and chores can wait another day.”

To see more of Brenda’s artwork, visit brendaclewsart.nz.