Samantha Qiao’s Qiao SOLO Art Exhibition Celebrates Wellington’s Iconic Landmarks In Watercolor

Local artist Samantha Qiao invites Wellingtonians to experience her stunning solo exhibition, Qiao SOLO, now open at the Kiwi Art House Gallery in Wellington. This captivating showcase features a collection of watercolor paintings that beautifully depict Wellington’s most beloved landmarks, from the vibrant Cuba Street to the serene Oriental Bay and the iconic Beehive. Running until May 10, 2025, this exhibition is a must-see for art lovers and proud locals alike.

Samantha Qiao, a self-taught Chinese-Kiwi artist, has garnered acclaim for her emotive and storytelling-driven watercolor works. With over two decades of immersion in the cultures and landscapes of New Zealand and Australia, Samantha’s paintings are a heartfelt tribute to the places that inspire her. Her signature watercolor style, honed since joining Wellington’s Outdoor Watercolour Group in 2011, captures the essence of Wellington’s urban and coastal beauty with delicate precision and vibrant hues.

“Each painting in Qiao SOLO tells a story of Wellington’s spirit,” says Samantha. “From the windswept waterfront to the historic charm of Thorndon, I’ve poured my love for this city into every brushstroke. I hope these works resonate with locals and visitors who share that connection to this remarkable place.”

Samantha’s artistic journey is as inspiring as her work. Transitioning from a corporate career to full-time artistry in 2024, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her business degrees and a lifelong passion for sketching and painting. Her talents have earned her awards in traditional Chinese ink painting and architectural sketching, and her exhibitions have captivated audiences in Melbourne, Wellington, and Auckland. Known as “the Church Artist” in Auckland for her live worship paintings, Samantha’s ability to weave emotion and narrative into her art has touched viewers far and wide.

The Qiao SOLO exhibition showcases Samantha’s deep connection to Wellington, with each piece envisioned as a narrative celebrating the city’s landmarks and cultural vibrancy. Visitors can expect to see watercolor interpretations of landmarks like the Wellington Cable Car, Te Papa, and the windswept South Coast, all rendered with her distinctive blend of technical skill and emotional depth.

Event Details:

• Exhibition: Qiao SOLO by Samantha Qiao
• Venue: Kiwi Art House Gallery, 288 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington
• Dates: Now until May 10, 2025
• Hours: Tuesday–Friday 10 AM–5 PM, Saturday–Sunday 11 AM–4 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: Free
• Media Preview: April 25, 2025, at 11 AM (RSVP by April 23 to samanthaqiao.art@gmail.com)
• Artist Talk: May 3, 2025, at 2 PM (free, no registration required)

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