About
A self-taught painter since 2004 winning many awards over the years, Rhonyes’ works are held in private collections throughout New Zealand and Overseas.
Originally involved in the fashion design industry in Europe, the drawing of detailed figures and clothing coupled with fantastic visual experiences of historic paintings and statues grew her painting passion immensely.
Work is acrylic on board creating a series of finely detailed figurative layered works involving family heirlooms and history.
New Zealand’s rich stories involving Rhonye’s direct ancestors including ‘The Historical Harriet Affair 1834’ has been a huge influence in her depictions of true people and historic events. This event is a story that has a pivotal place in New Zealand History and is known as a catalyst in the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
The unique paintings draw you in and seek to provoke thought and conversations about our New Zealand history. It is also very personal to Rhonye as Elizabeth “Betty” Guard, who is recorded as the first European woman to settle in the South Island was Rhonye’s great-great-great Grandmother.
Rhonye McIlroy is represented by Windsor Gallery, Christchurch and The Gallery at Nelson City Framers.
