Artist Statement
Andrea Choonoo’s journey began in the heart of South Africa, where the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage awakened her artistic spirit. Growing up in a small town, Andrea was surrounded by the warmth of her family and the community, but she also felt the tug of something with a greater purpose—
a world of colour, storytelling, natural beauty, texture, and imagination that went beyond her everyday life.
From a young age, she expressed herself through sketches, paintings, and crafts, often using materials she found around her home. Her art was personal, full of the emotions and stories of her life. However, it wasn’t until she moved abroad and began exploring the larger world that her talent began to flourish.
Upon arriving in New Zealand, Andrea found herself in a country just as breathtakingly beautiful as her homeland, yet vastly different. The contrast between South Africa's rugged, sun-drenched terrain and New Zealand's lush, verdant landscapes gave her a new palette to work with. She immersed herself in the art scene, as a Whitecliffe graduate, drawing inspiration from Pasifika and Maori culture and the natural surroundings that captivated her. Her work became a fusion of her travel experiences, visiting most places around the world via a dream vocation as a videographer on a cruise ship, grounded in her African roots and the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness.
Andrea soon founded Lav'e Gallery, an online gallery that captured her vision. It wasn’t just about selling art; it was about creating a space where people could experience the passion behind each piece. Every canvas she touched told a story, blending the nostalgia of her South African childhood with the serenity of her new life in New Zealand. Her work resonated deeply with collectors, and Lav`e Gallery became a growing evergreen ecosystem or garden of beauty, especially on platforms like Instagram, where Andrea currently cultivates a quality devoted following.
Andrea’s art is characterized by its emotional depth and bold use of colours. Her pieces often evoke feelings of both longing and belonging, with intricate patterns and layered textures that mirror the complexity of her life’s journey. She uses a mix of traditional techniques and modern media, always experimenting, always evolving. For Andrea, art is more than a visual experience—it’s a means of connection, a sensory journey and a way to bridge the gap between cultures, places, and people.
Today, Andrea Choonoo’s work is not only appreciated by art collectors in New Zealand but has also gained international interest. Her creations are a celebration of life, nature, and the human experience, all viewed through the unique lens of her dual heritage. Each piece is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and deep love for the world around her.
As she continues to grow her gallery, Andrea remains committed to sharing her journey through art, inviting others to see the world as she does—one vibrant stroke at a time.
Photo Credit: Stacey Edgar from Artslab
