Testimonials
I look forward to it each week
I liked the relaxed, informative, supportive, and constructive feedback.
I learnt reflections, mixing of colours, different brush types and techniques and to follow natural intuition also.
Heléne has a natural teaching ability, time goes by so quickly in class! Lovely ladies and I look forward to it each week, even if it is a challenge too sometimes
Lorelle Stranaghan
Art Class
Even more beautiful than we'd imagined
We’d been thinking about commissioning a painting of the view from Stockade Hill for a while - that sweeping outlook over Howick and the Hauraki Gulf is iconic, and loved by so many. It’s a place that holds meaning for us, and we wanted to bring a piece of it into our home.
When we saw Heléne’s work at the local market, it stopped us in our tracks. Her style had exactly the depth, colour, and atmosphere we were looking for.
From the first conversation, Helene was warm, easy to talk to, and really clear about how the process would work. She kept us updated along the way and made everything feel smooth and straightforward.
Her creativity, skill, and collaborative approach meant she was able to take our vision and turn it into something even more beautiful than we’d imagined.
The finished painting is incredible. It’s vibrant, layered, and full of feeling - it captures the view beautifully and brings a part of Howick into our home in such a special way. We absolutely love it.
Pam and Gillian
Commission - 'Howick Seaview'
Heléne is an awesome teacher
I liked how welcoming and friendly everyone in the class is.
Heléne is an awesome teacher - very encouraging, knowledgeable, and patient. I loved how we were guided through each step while also having our own creativity!
I learned various techniques, layering, blending, and how to use different brushes for different effects.
Thank you Heléne for the wonderful classes!
Susan Truong
Art Class
Find your own style
I liked getting to know the people in our class. We all do the same painting as Heléne but no two are the same.
Every painting we have done there is some new technique to learn - perspective, waves, clouds, adding detail, using different brushes and palette knife.
Heléne is a very talented artist who, as a teacher, lets you find your own style. She will assist when you get stuck or frustrated but won't take over and encourages you to keep trying.
Anna Meyer
Art Class
Friendly, supportive environment
I liked learning new techniques in a friendly, supportive environment.
We have been learning about perspective this term and it has really helped me to progress.
I like that Heléne continues to reinforce the basics (composition and colour mixing) without controlling our individual style.
Judy Alderdice
Art Class
Excited to continue practicing
The atmosphere was very welcoming and inspiring for my Term Classes.
I've really enjoyed the painting classes and I especially liked the knowledge and skill Heléne has. I learnt that a palette knife can be used to paint an apple on a plate and I'm excited to continue practicing what I've learnt.
I've learnt to mix colours, canvas preparation, shading, perspective drawing and many more techniques.
I'm looking forward to returning Terms 3 and 4!!!!
Deborah Lumb
Art Class
Well worth doing
Going to Heléne's classes has given me the confidence to paint. So enjoyable and rewarding.
As a beginner I've learnt heaps. Heléne is very good at teaching us the techniques needed.
It is well worth doing these classes, whether it is for fun (like me) or you are more serious.
Lynda Boles
Art Class
Heléne is very patient and great to learn from
I loved coming to class, learning lots of new techniques, and meeting like-minded arty people.
Heléne is very patient and great to learn from. I have learnt a lot and am still learning.
If you're thinking of getting your Art on, then I totally recommend Heléne's classes.
Kerri Rusher
Art Class
Heléne makes it fun
I liked learning new techniques. Working in a class and seeing all the different takes on a subject.
I learnt about acrylic Landscapes and Still Life, mixing colours, and what different brushes do.
It's a great fun environment, good to have it locally. Heléne makes it fun.
Karen Stewart
Art Class
Enjoyed meeting other locals
I've enjoyed meeting other locals, learning many new ideas, and learning to relax when painting.
I've learnt that yellow brightens and white lightens; heaps of things!
Really enjoyed the whole experience.
Alice Zeilstra
Art Class
You never want to stop
The confidence that Heléne gives her students makes us want to try even what appears difficult.
I have learned how to blend and where to start a painting, perspective, and how to make a painting less two-dimensional.
This is the kind of class that you want to never stop. Students return each Term if they can.
Molly Hubert
Art Class
Friendly, encouraging, supportive tutor
I like the friendly, encouraging, supportive tutor and group. Learning new things and building the confidence to give my own paintings a go.
I learnt everything about painting with Acrylics - was a total beginner. Colour mixing, painting techniques, perspectives/layout.
Morwenna Hawkins
Art Class
You feel like you have very personal support
Heléne's passion for her craft is addictive, she is extremely patient and teaches at the group's pace.
The Gallery space to learn in is inspiring and the group was small enough to feel like you have very personal support.
I learnt so many fabulous things, how to mix colours, how to create depth, and the tools you need to paint a landscape.
Cushla Reed
Art Class
Heléne Henare - Artist
Heléne Henare is an acclaimed New Zealand artist known for her evocative works that weave together contemporary expression, and deep spiritual resonance.
Her art speaks of a connection to land, sea, and ancestry, and has earned her recognition both locally and internationally.
Heléne’s artwork encourages reflection, storytelling, and cultural celebration.