About Andra Krūmiņš

I believe that good art, like good literature, should not always be tied irrevocably to the themes motivating the artist at the time of its creation. Naturally my paintings have a particular meaning for me, but that does not in any way diminish the validity of other interpretations. Each work has its own place in the world, outside of myself.

What I wish most from my art is to cause both an intellectual and visceral response: That it be not just “head art” or “decor art”, but art which also in some way seizes the guts and heart, evoking an emotional reaction.

The body as a subject is unfailingly fascinating: we are, each of us, superbly constructed instruments of expression. When shapes or lines of flesh and bone are put together with the added strength of colours and textures in a two dimensional image, the result can be compelling and universal.

Acrylics are my most favoured medium as they allow for a fantastic range of effects within one piece, giving marvelous scope and freedom! I also use ink, gouache and watercolours.

b i o g r a p h y

Born Wellington, New Zealand 1964 of Latvian and Estonian parents (Father from Riga, Latvia, mother from Tallinn, Estonia.)
Completed secondary school in NZ, then took up a scholarship at the Latvian High School in Münster, Germany.
Graduated with a BA from Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand.
1982-1989 travelled and worked in various countries before starting an Art Gallery and picture framing business in New Zealand.
In 1991-92 married, became a mother and sold the business.
Began painting seriously in 1993, taking courses while living in Washington DC, USA.
Paintings in private collections (Australia, England, France, Holland, India, Latvia, New Zealand, Ukraine, USA...) since 1997.
Migrated to Australia in 2007 and now resides in Sydney, Australia.

Andra, pictured here with her parents,
late 1960s, South Coast of Wellington, New Zealand