Distinguished Alumni Awards 2018: Holly Zandbergen

Holly Zandbergen  (Artist)
Bachelor of Visual Arts (Painting) (2013)

As a student Holly Zanbergen was a model of dedication. She would paint in her studio area for two hours in the early morning before anyone else arrived.

This devotion to her work has paid off, Holly’s record and reputation as an emerging new talent growing alongside her burgeoning talent. She has had works exhibited in numerous galleries, competitions and art fairs in London, Seattle, Toronto, Florence and Auckland.

Holly moved to London not long after graduating and exhibited in various galleries in the UK. She won the coveted ‘Best Young Artist’ Award in the UK’s National Open Art Competition, which was exhibited at the Royal College of Art in London in 2015.

Last year, Holly had her first solo show at Rebecca Hossack Gallery in London, which was opened by the New Zealand High Commissioner, an honour bestowed on very few New Zealand artists.

She has established herself in one of the biggest and most difficult art platforms (painting), largely under her own steam, proof of her dedication to the art-form.

Significantly, Holly has maintained contact with the School of art, offering her time to present to senior students, providing a real account of her struggles and successes.

Holly’s career includes the following highlights:
> 2016 Prudential Best Young Artist Award (£5000) at the UK’s National Open Art Awards, held at the Royal College of Art in London2013 - NZAAT Emerging Artist Award, The New Zealand Art Show  
   – The River Series, Graham Hunter Gallery, London, 2016
   – Columbia Threadneedle Prize, The Mall Galleries, London, 2016
   – Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, 2016
   – NOA Winner's Exhibition, Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, 2015

> Exhibitions: The National Open Art Exhibition, The Royal College of Art, London, 2015;
   – Creekside Open 2015 selected by Lisa Milroy, APT Gallery, London;
   – RSM Plunket Law Show, Aigantighe Gallery, 2014;
   – The NZ Art Show, TSB Arena, NZ; SITE, Dunedin School of Art, NZ, 2013