Waitete Beach with Tane by Richard Chrisp

SOLD

Technique

Watercolour on Paper

Signed by Richard Chrisp
2023

Measurements

Framed 285 x 390mm
Watercolour on paper 240 x 350mm

Waitete Beach is Richards favourite bay on the north western side of the Coromandel Peninsula and he has a series Waitete Beach paintings spanning over many years.

This is Chrisp's Oct 2023 version capturing nature, the wild waves and a hint of islands in the background.

In the present day, Richard Chrisp resides on the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand, where he has chosen to make his home for an extended period. His art is characterized by the influence of his time in France and his unique fusion of artistic styles. His work has been likened to the likes of David Jones, Matisse, Raoul Dufy and Cezanne, showcasing an energetic personality evident in his interior, landscape and floral paintings.

In the mid-1970s, Chrisp's artistic journey led him to Paris, France, where he enrolled in the prestigious Ecole des Beaux-Arts. Prior to this, he had diligently learned French and Italian during his studies at Victoria University. It was during his time in Europe that he began honing his skills as a watercolour artist. Chrisp, also fluent in Italian spent time in Italy in the 1970’s and his inspiration today continues to capture his memories, friendships, connections and colours of Europe.

Waitete Bay and Fossils 

 New Zealand fossils from the Oligocene Epoch: Two thirds of modern day New Zealand were submerged during the Oligocene, the movement of the tectonic plates in the north of New Zealand caused big areas of oceanic crust to be subducted, pushed into as well as over the northern and western parts of the North Island.

The little land that was left during the Oligocene was home to a decreasing number of species. Many died but some snails, peripatus, frogs, tuatara and ratites survived.

A similar scenario happened to the plants on land, and here the warmth loving beech trees became dominant. Large sea urchins, giant oysters, crayfish, molluscs and giant sharks (up to 13 metres) thrived in the shallow seas.

The fossilised shells of giant oysters can be found in limestones on the Coromandel Peninsula at Waitete Bay in the shore platform at low tide.

M: 027 629 7408   E: art@christinerabarts.com