Beyonce Pene: A journey of cultural expression through art

20 Dec 2023

 Beyonce Pene, a promising artist and full-time student at Whitecliffe College, is making waves in the art world with her expressive and culturally rich creations. Her work, which draws inspiration from her Māori and Ugandan heritage, is a testament to her deep connection with cultural narratives and her commitment to preserving and celebrating her roots. 

Beyonce's work is a celebration of expression, with each piece inviting viewers to interpret it through their own unique lens. Her reluctance to title most pieces leaves room for individual interpretations, fostering a connection between the audience and the artwork. Currently in the process of exploring and experimenting with different mediums and styles, Beyonce's artistic journey is one of continuous growth and evolution.

Beyonce's artistic journey began in her early years, nurtured by exposure to art and a supportive environment. Encouragement from her mother and mentorship from her first art teacher, Dagmar Dyck, and college art teacher, Alan Fletcher, played pivotal roles in shaping her path. Fletcher's influence challenged Beyonce's abilities, pushing her beyond her comfort zone and encouraging her to create on a larger scale.

Artist Beyonce Pene with a collection of her artwork.

The heartbeat of Beyonce's creations lies in her rich Māori and Ugandan heritage. Drawing inspiration from the oral stories passed down by her grandparents and mother, Beyonce's art becomes a vessel for cultural exploration and a tool for understanding her own identity. Her work serves as a bridge between the past and the future, respecting cultural history while moving forward in a positive and identity-affirming way.

One of Beyonce's favourite pieces holds a profound meaning, representing the resilience of the Māori people. It symbolises overcoming adversity while honouring cultural identity and language. This piece encapsulates the essence of Beyonce's artistic vision, blending storytelling with vibrant visuals to convey powerful messages.

Beyonce employs a mix of Resene paint and other mediums in her creative process. Constant sketching in her notebook helps her process ideas and translate them into different mediums. Her design-making process is a journey of imagination and exploration, reflecting her commitment to pushing boundaries. 

Choosing Resene paint was a practical decision for Beyonce, driven by its cost-effectiveness and extensive colour selection. Vibrancy plays a significant role in her colour palette, mirroring the traditional patterns, clothing and native practices of her cultural heritage. Resene Aqua, currently her favourite Resene colour, embodies vibrancy, catchiness and a calming effect, making it a perfect choice for her expressive works.

Through her work, she not only preserves and celebrates her heritage but also invites viewers to connect with their own interpretations. As she continues her studies and artistic evolution at Whitecliffe College, Beyonce Pene is undoubtedly an artist to watch, with her unique voice and cultural insights leaving an indelible mark on the art world.

See more of Beyonce’s work on Instagram at @beyoncepeneart

Colours used in Beyonce’s work include Resene Aqua, Resene Blue Night, Resene Hullabaloo, Resene Charlotte, Resene Belladonna, Resene Bright Red, Resene Kaitoke Green, Resene Princess, Resene Torea Bay, Resene Sassy, Resene Unicorn Lavendar, Resene Dizzy Lizzy, Resene Drop Dead Gorgeous, Resene Wet N Wild, Resene Guru and Resene Malibu.

Published: 20 Dec 2023