I come from an artistic family, and grew up and lived with creative influences all my life. My early years were full of artistic exploration and fun.

I enjoy painting as a way to re-focus, relax and explore, typically working from real life or photographs of my own experiences. The experiences and imperfections of everyday life are my enduring inspiration, and I enjoy capturing moments in time. I enjoy working in all mediums, but I especially like painting with oils. This medium allows me to explore the wonders of light, reflection, and the richness of colour and texture. 
  
Being able to 'see' the world and then translate that to a creative medium is due in no small part to my heritage, and I am thankful for that. My natural inclination has been to document the world I see, in all its infinite detailed beauty, and I can see my Dutch heritage in my works.

My father Anton Reitsma was a keen wood and metal sculptor, a member of group 60, and featured in New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts exhibitions. My Great Great Grandfather founded the John Leech Gallery in Auckland in 1885 and was a gilder and framer to the royal family. The John Leech Gallery continues to collect, exhibit, and sell a range of significant New Zealand artworks and artefacts to this day.
 
Art is an enduring journey, which by its nature, encourages introspection and change. It will be interesting to see where my journey takes me in the coming years, and I would love to share that journey with you.

Amanda