My name is Enza Tonkin and I am a visual artist based in Newcastle, Australia. My love for art began in the ramshackle cottage where I grew up, surrounded by fruit trees, grape vines and a thriving vegetable garden. My Italian parents instilled in me a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and the joy of creating something with my own hands. From a young age I was captivated by the stunning colours and textures of the flowers that grew in our garden. This passion for flora and fauna has continued to inspire me throughout my life and is the driving force behind my work as an artist.
In my studio you will find an array of paints, palettes, and pots of colour, each one carefully selected to capture the beauty of the natural world. I particularly enjoy using the earthy hues of terracotta, Naples yellow, and burnt sienna, which I use to bring my floral artworks to life. My paintings are a celebration of the beauty and tranquillity of nature. I am especially drawn to the calming effect of greens with whites, such as gardenias, white roses, hydrangeas and magnolias. Each bloom is captured at its peak, whether it is fully opened or just emerging with the spring.
Through my photographs and selection process I choose the most vivid and dramatic blooms to immortalise on canvas. Magic happens as I paint the light on the form, creating a lasting beauty full of drama and love. Each artwork is a handmade creation, imbued with the same passion and creativity that my family instilled in me so many years ago.
I invite you to explore my portfolio and experience the joy and wonder of nature through my art. Thank you for visiting my website.
