Ōpōtiki artist Deano Collier was wondering whether he should revive his art following a stroke, so he dipped a toe in the water with a post on social media.

The wholehearted response he received has persuaded him that he’s meant to be using his talent.

Mr Collier likes to paint landscapes of bush and river scenes; seascapes inspired by local beaches and now and again old houses.  

“It seemed from the likes I received on social media that there’s plenty of appetite for all of these, so 2026 will be the year for me to launch Deanozart. I’ll be getting busy and intend to paint all these kinds of scenes and more,” he said.

“I can’t wait really, coming back from a stroke isn’t easy but I’ve found my daily walks downtown to be a huge help and, of course, the art provides a focus.”

Mr Collier’s involvement with painting and drawing goes back a long way.

When he was a pupil at Ashbrook School, he was encouraged by teacher Sarah Pahewa, and later at Ōpōtiki College by art teachers Gerald Flude and Josie Mortensen. His uncle, renowned Māori artist Ruka Hudson, was also a huge encouragement.

“I’ve had people take an interest in my art to help me develop my gift; my family first and foremost and I’m grateful to those who follow me on Facebook.

“I think Ōpōtiki is a great place to live and I’m constantly photographing scenes I want to paint later. It’s great to see visitors from other parts of the country arriving and getting much pleasure from all the beauty here,” Mr Collier said.

“So, let’s not take it for granted.”