My Emerging Artist Journey
"Transformation starts by believing in yourself."
Over the past two years, I’ve rediscovered my passion for creating art after having set it aside in 2008. Now, I truly feel fulfilled pursuing what I believe is my life’s purpose.
My journey included enrolling in The Milan Institute’s Mastery Program, an experience that was both intense and rewarding. The program helped me further develop my skills, and my latest collection showcases my unique style and artistic voice.
I focus on producing vibrant pieces in an abstract realism style, bringing beauty and intrigue into collectors’ home interiors.
From my home studio, I create, surrounded by native bush and birds—a setting that offers endless inspiration for my artistic growth.
Tara Rountree is an accomplished artist based in Kinloch, located on the western shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand. Originally from Christchurch, she relocated to the North Island with her family at the age of seven, eventually settling in Whanganui. Tara commenced studies in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at Whanganui UCOL (class of 2008) but withdrew at the start of her second year to focus on raising her two young sons. In 2016, seeking further creative expression, she completed a Diploma in Interior Design and undertook professional work with several clients; however, she determined that this field was not sustainable as a primary source of income. Consequently, she transitioned to supporting her husband’s company through administration and office management.
In late 2022, Tara and her husband transitioned to Kinloch, Taupo, embracing a new lifestyle as empty nesters. This change reignited her creative pursuits. In 2023, Tara resumed drawing and discovered Procreate, an iPad application that enabled her to create hand-illustrated works digitally and produce professional prints on Fine Art Paper. Her artwork “Little Tree Roast” won the 2023 Shirley’s Shoes Art Competition “Nextshoes” Cover, encouraging her to join the Taupo Art Connection and participate in exhibitions, where she successfully sold several pieces.
Beginning in March 2024, Tara enrolled in the Milan Institute’s Mastery Program, focusing on fine art painting and drawing. She now practices from her home studio, set amidst native bush and birds, providing an inspiring environment for artistic development. Throughout 2025, Tara has significantly advanced her skills, and her current collection reflects her distinctive style and creative voice. She is dedicated to producing vibrant artworks in an abstract realism style, aiming to introduce beauty and intrigue to collectors' spaces.
Tara demonstrates an independent approach to her artistic career by choosing self-representation. She intends to promote her artwork through social media channels and plans to launch a YouTube channel in 2026. Through these platforms, she will offer insights into her creative process, present completed works, and document the evolution of her ideas and techniques. Her commitment is focused on producing vibrant pieces in an abstract realism style to introduce beauty and intrigue into homes worldwide. Original works may be purchased exclusively through her online store, and a curated selection of reproduction prints will be available soon as framed canvas or paper editions.
