On the Creative Matters Podcast, host Mandy Jakich delves into the lives and practices of Aotearoa’s artists, uncovering their unique journeys and creative processes. In this episode, Mandy speaks with Helen Ollivier, a painter based in West Auckland, who brings a dream-like quality to her evocative landscapes.

A graduate of Elam School of Fine Arts in 1997, Helen has built an impressive career with six solo exhibitions, numerous group shows, and inclusion in several New Zealand art publications. Recently, she has embarked on a significant artistic journey, embracing a 100-day challenge to reconnect with her creative voice and rediscover the joy of being a full-time artist after years devoted to running children’s art programmes and raising four children of her own.

Helen’s latest works are dynamic landscapes that explore rhythm, movement, and the interplay of texture, colour, and light. In this candid conversation, she reflects on her remarkable early success—being represented by a dealer gallery in her second year at Elam—and the enduring 25-year connection she still enjoys with the same gallery. She also speaks openly about navigating imposter syndrome, overcoming self-doubt, and the fulfilment she’s found in prioritising her practice after a five-year hiatus.

This episode offers a heartfelt look into Helen’s journey, showcasing her passion for art and her determination to embrace creativity once again.

Listen to the episode on Spotify by clicking the graphic below.