We are delighted to welcome Alaska-based artist and Adam Portraiture Award finalist Stephen Lawrie during his visit to Aotearoa. Join Lawrie in conversation with New Zealand Portrait Gallery Director Brian Wood as they discuss his artistic practice, what it means to be an artist working in Alaska, and share insights into life in the far north.

Born and raised in Wellington, Stephen attended Tawa College and has been painting since his youth. After a year studying at Elam School of Fine Arts, he left to work as a commercial deer hunter in South Westland before embarking on an adventure to Alaska in 1975. There, he began a long career as an independent commercial salmon fisher, while continuing to develop his artistic practice.

Stephen has exhibited widely throughout Alaska and has also presented exhibitions in New Zealand, including at Pātaka Art + Museum in Porirua and Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History in Masterton. Now retired from fishing, he paints full-time from his home in Alaska.

Accessibility Information: The New Zealand Portrait Gallery is an accessible venue, all on one level. There is an accessible wharepaku at the back of the venue. The gallery has automatic sliding doors and glass doors that can be pushed or pulled to enter. We have a wheelchair available for use within the gallery, and there is low stool seating throughout. If you have any questions regarding accessibility or if there is something we could do to make your visit easier, please get in touch.