Rika Nagahata

Rika Nagahata creates captivating works that draw viewers in by combining traditional Japanese art with contemporary and experimental techniques. She was born in Osaka, Japan and has been a resident in New Zealand since 2008. Graduating from Osaka Art University with a major in printmaking, she has been creating artworks for many years, becoming a full time artist in 2014. Rika’s skills and exploration of printmaking is evident, experimenting with different copper-plate printing techniques to create unique works.

The progression of Nagahata’s work still contains exquisite patterns and fine lines that reflect the intricate process of etching, but she now uses ink and watercolours to create originals instead of prints. This unique connection gives her works a special feel and presence that enables the viewer to get entranced and lost in the details.

Nagahata takes inspiration from the numerous unique and beautiful animals New Zealand has to offer, as well as various children’s book illustrators and traditional Japanese art.