Svetlana Orinko

One of New Zealand’s Top
Artists & Tutors

Some Examples of Svetlana’s Work

About Svetlana Orinko

I began my journey as an artist at a very young age having inherited artistic abilities from my father. I was born and grew up in Ukraine.

At the age of 12 after passing an entrance examination I began a rigorous Classical Old Masters art education program, which would take me almost 10 years to complete.

After completing my education I didn’t know any contemporary artist in Ukraine so the prospect of becoming professional artist never even crossed my mind. I was also an accomplished dressmaker and had my own clientele from which I was able to make a living.

Life was difficult and opportunities were limited in the former USSR. I started looking for solutions to better my world and to give my growing daughter a better future. In 1992 I emmigrated to New Zealand and started painting again. Since that time I enjoyed amazing success and a growing reputation as one of the country’s top artist and teacher.

I become known for my detailed floral compositions and ability as a skillful portrait artist.

My chosen mediums are oil and watercolour, and my style is best described as Contemporary Realism.

My traditional art school background taught me that the real skill comes from: “Say what you want to say with minimum brushstrokes”

I have won numerous Art Awards, have been featured in many publications and on the TV program “Put Some Colour in Your Life”

Website: www.svetlanaorinko.com

Latest 5 years Art Awards & Achievements: (there are too many to mention)

Published in magazine “Pratique des Arts” HS Aquarelle (special watercolour issue) France Sept/Oct 2016

Published in International Artist Magazine issue 109 June/July

Artsy Shark Featured Artist article April 2016

Featured Colour in Your Life Artist April 2016

Kath von Tunzelman Memorial Watercolour Award 2015, Ashburton

Lysaght Watt People Choice Award 2015 “Self-portrait”