About Amanda
I am a self-taught artist based in New Zealand, passionate about creativity, storytelling, and connection.
My journey with art began in childhood, where I found joy in drawing and expressing ideas visually. Life took me on different paths, but I rediscovered my love for painting while living in Indonesia as a young mother.
Since moving to New Zealand in 1999, I have continued to grow my artistic voice, creating works that reflect imagination, emotion, and culture.
Today, I explore both traditional and digital art, including immersive experiences in Second Life®, where I connect with a global audience through creativity and storytelling.
Through my work, I hope to inspire warmth, curiosity, and a sense of wonder.
My Creative Journey
My journey as an artist has been shaped by independence, resilience, and a deep desire to create something meaningful.
Growing up in an Asian community, I did not receive much encouragement to pursue art. Creativity was something I explored quietly on my own, while expectations leaned more towards practical careers such as office or banking work. Instead, I chose to follow a different path and trained as a hairstylist — a creative field in its own right.
It wasn’t until later in life, while living in Indonesia as a young mother, that I truly discovered my ability to draw and create professionally. At the time, I was looking for ways to contribute to my household, and art became both a creative outlet and an opportunity.
With limited resources, I began using coloured pencils to create drawings inspired by my younger sister Didi’s cartoon-style work, often incorporating positive and uplifting messages. These early creations marked the beginning of my artistic journey.
From those humble beginnings in Indonesia, my passion for art continued to grow. After moving to New Zealand, I expanded into painting and eventually held my first exhibition in 2004. Over time, my work has evolved into both traditional and digital forms, including immersive experiences in Second Life®, where I connect with a global audience.
Today, my art reflects not only creativity, but also perseverance, storytelling, and the joy of discovering one’s path later in life.