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Artist Bio:
Art has always been a way for Sonja to explore the quiet emotions and stories that connect us. Based in New Zealand, she creates expressive paintings that focus primarily on the female face, capturing moments of vulnerability, strength, hope, and reflection.
Working intuitively, she is drawn to the subtle expressions that reveal what words often cannot. Each painting is an invitation to pause, connect, and discover something familiar within ourselves. Rather than striving for perfect realism, she seeks to express feeling, atmosphere, and the unique character of each subject. Inspiration comes from everyday life, human connection, and the resilience found in people from all walks of life. Her hope is that her work encourages viewers to slow down, look a little deeper, and experience a sense of empathy, hope, or quiet recognition.
She continues to experiment with new techniques and materials while allowing curiosity and creativity to guide her artistic journey.

I KNOW THE BATTLE © Sonja Rusden 2025
Oil - H600mm x W400mm

WHEN ONE RISES WE ALL RISE
© Sonja Rusden 2025
Mixed Media - H850mm x W530mm

IN THIS MOMENT © Sonja Rusden 2024
Oil - H1200mm x W760mm

QUEEN SO ‘N SO © Sonja Rusden 2019
Mixed media - H900mm x W700mm
Galleries:
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Exhibitions:
- 2025 Mahurangi Artist Studio Trail
2025 The Great Summer Art Exhibition
2024 Mahurangi Artist Studio Trail
2013 Art Matakana Gallery, Honours Graduation Exhibition “The Creekers”
