Artist in Residence

Dean Proudfoot is a Wellington-based artist whose diverse creative practice spans bold graphics and nuanced imagery. His paintings are rooted in accessibility and playfulness, inviting viewers in with curiosity and leaving them with a sense of joy. He writes, "Art, for me, should be engaging and open, not locked behind theory or elitism."

Firmly grounded in the experience of life in Aotearoa, his work draws on local cultural references and a strong connection to the land. Being a Kiwi shapes his perspective and his relationship with place, people, and history is at the heart of everything he creates. Dean's approach aligns with the Lowbrow art movement, emphasising that art should resonate, provoke thought, and evoke genuine emotional responses.

With over 30 years of experience as a commercial illustrator, Dean has earned recognition and awards, collaborating with a wide range of clients both in New Zealand and internationally. His work is held in respected private and corporate collections, including the Arts House Trust and the OT Art Hotel, and he is continually humbled by the places his art finds a home.

Dean is looking forward to working with our students as this year's Scots College Artist in Residence.

The Artist in Residence Programme

The Artist in Residence programme began in 2012 when the Creative and Perfoming Arts Centre (CPAC) building was finished, with Chris Parkin as the first sponsor. In 2022, the Artist in Residence sponsorship became part of the Scots College Parents' Association (SCPA).

The goal of the Artist in Residence programme is to provide artists with an opportunity to work on their craft of making art, while creating opportunities with our ākonga to have a chance to see artists in action. Students from all three schools get to interact with the Artist in Residence, and each year, the Artist in Residence brings a new and different approach to art making – from traditional painting practices to more conceptual ideas. This gives our ākonga the opportunity to learn more about many different forms of art making.

Previous artists include: Jeremy Bennett, Taupuruariki (Ariki) Whakataka Brightwell, Kelcy Taratoa, Seraphine Pick, Matt Gauldie, Hannah Schickedanz (mural in page header), Greta Menzies, Sam Duckor-Jones, Michel Tuffery, Antony Nobilo, and Lynne Sandri.