Simon Olsen

“My work focuses on the emotional and physical impact of oil painting. I use strong contrast and thick layers of textured paint to create an immediate, bodily or felt response, before any intellectual interpretation. My colour choices also play a role, by balancing bold, intense colours with softer, earthier tones.

At the heart of my work is an interest in psychological and spiritual change — the points where pain can turn into acceptance, and ordinary moments become extraordinary. Rather than trying to solve or explain these tensions, the paintings sit within them, exploring how small changes in perspective can shift the way we experience reality.

This currently takes shape through abstracted figurative paintings — my Renewing Series. This collection aims to capture the quiet moments when deeper truths can be revealed or obscured, through the fluid and symbolic interplay of light, shadow, and water. Moments when our renewal is possible, but not always embraced”.

Artist bio

Simon Olsen (b. 1980) is based in Pōneke | Wellington, Aotearoa | New Zealand,  where he maintains an active studio practice and is supported by mentorship from established painters and studies at Inverlochy Art School.

Olsen’s debut solo exhibition ‘Right Under My Nose’ in 2025 drew strong audience engagement, with coverage in the Regional News and most works acquired. Later in 2025 his painting ‘Surrender’ received 2nd place in the Inverlochy Art School Annual Exhibition’s People’s Choice Award, from over 100 entries.

Exhibitions Gallery are pleased to announce that Simon Olsen’s The Renewing Series’ will be  exhibited in the gallery with dates to be announced.