about Pauline

Pauline Gough Artist Biography
Pauline Gough is a New Zealand, self-taught artist and has been painting and exhibiting prolifically since 2010.

Her painterly artworks are largely painted alla prima in a deliberate attempt to keep the art lively and not overworked.  With energetic brushwork, deliberate texture and mark making, Pauline’s bold works are nostalgic and instantly recognisable.

Pauline’s rural upbringing and marriage to a farmer has shaped the themes and textures of her work, with the rustic charm and rugged beauty of New Zealand remaining central to her artistic voice.
Pauline works from her studio in Matakana, north of Auckland and her art is held in private collections in New Zealand and around the world.

Pauline was the official artist for Tour of New Zealand 2015, 2017 and 2019.  This entailed painting 2 cyclist themed paintings a day for 7 days, while traveling the length of the North Island. All her paintings were auctioned and sold for charity at the end of the race.

Artist  Statement
I love to throw paint around, with no fixed idea of where it will take me.  The magic is in being intuitive and brave and not thinking too much.  I like exploring different mediums and ideas.  This way I keep my work fresh and not too predictable.  In this world of AI images, I’m motivated to create something original and beautiful with my own hands, plus it’s important to me, I’m having fun.  Hopefully this shows through in my art.


Awards:
Finalist 2017 Cliftons Art Prize 
3rd Prize, The Great Summer Art Exhibition, Professional Section 2016/17
Finalist 2015 Cliftons Art Prize
1st in Gilmore Brown Art Awards 2014
Finalist 2013 Cliftons Art Prize
Merit in Auckland Easter Show 2013 (Dry Category)
2nd in Auckland Easter Show 2013 (New Artist Award)
3rd in Gilmore Brown Kaipara Community Art Awards 2012