10cm x 10cm pieces available to purchase at Taupō Museum and Gallery, NZ
Jodie Appleton
Artist
Mobile: 02108257406
Email: jodiearttaupo@outlook.com
Website: www.jodiearttaupo.com
Instagram/Facebook: @jodiearttaupo
During my Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art, I specialised in drawing and mark-making — disciplines that continue to shape my creative practice today.
Three years ago, I began exploring pyrography: the art of burning images into wood. This technique offered a way to make my drawings more tactile and enduring. Working with pyrography has since become a central part of my practice, allowing me to combine fine detail with the natural textures of timber.
My work is deeply influenced by my passion for the environment, particularly the unique native bush of Aotearoa. My intricate compositions celebrate New Zealand’s forests while exploring the complex relationship between people and the land. Each piece is carefully designed to highlight themes of guardianship, identity, and connection to nature.
The wood I work with is more than a surface — it becomes part of the story. The grain, shape, and species of timber often inform the imagery I burn into it. Symbolism plays a key role in my work, from the choice of forest scenes to the placement of constructed forms and other visual elements. This considered approach results in layered, spiritual images that invite viewers to reflect on the wonder of the natural world and our place within it.
Through my art, I seek to foster a deeper appreciation of the environment and a sense of responsibility for the land we inhabit.
Solo Exhibitions
1st Nov - 23rd Nov 2024 - Rotorua Arts Village - “From The Ashes”
3rd August - 9th Sept 2024 - Taupō Museum and Art Gallery - “From The Ashes”
Art Shows, Expos and Group Exhibitions
27th June - 29th June 2025 - Auckland Art Show - Pyrography
Gallery Representation
2024/25 - Taupō Museum and Art Gallery
2023 - Zeayou Gallery, Taupō
2013 - 2015 - Pihanga Gallery, Tūrangi
Awards and Competitions
2025 - Resene School Mural Competition - 3rd Place
2002 - Student achievement award - 4 drawings purchased by the University of Lincoln
1999 - Student of the Year award for Art Foundation Studies
1998 - Design Technology Award - A level
1998 - Personal Achievement Award - A level
Work Experiences
2024 - School Water Tank Mural - Mihi School
2012 - Sign Writing in the Office of Blackcurrant Backpackers
2012 - Mural - Laundry at Blackcurrant Backpackers
2011 - Sign Writing - Bradshaws Lodge
2011 - Benches and TV room at Blackcurrant Backpackers
2009 - Mural - Great Mercy Orphanage, Kenya
2009 - Mural - Christ Church School, UK
1999 - Millennium Mural - Eshton Hall Nursing Home, UK
Education
2005 – 2006 University of Leeds Leeds, England
PGCE - Primary Teaching
1999 – 2002 De Montfort University Lincoln, England
BA HONS Degree – Fine Art
1998 – 1999 Craven College Skipton, England
BTEC National Diploma – Art
A Level – Graphic Design
1991 – 1998 Skipton Girls' High School Skipton, England
3 A Levels - Art and Design, Design Technology, English Language
9 GCSEs - including Art and Design Technology