In pursuit of happiness

Photo: CAROLYN THOMAS

TALENTED ARTIST: Tania Sunde with her painting of North Piha at The Hardware Cafe in Titirangi.

Fulltime artist Tania Sunde didn’t let a hearing disability get in the way of her dream.

The former office worker is exhibiting at the New Zealand Affordable Art Show in Wellington this weekend.

"Nineteen years ago I dreamed of being an artist. I used to go to a coffee shop at Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design and I wanted to be there instead of typing."

Her goal was realised when she graduated in 2006 with a fine arts degree.

Tania grew up at Sunny Slope Orchards in Oratia and has been partially deaf since developing tinnitus at 18.

She worked for 15 years in administration, then a cafe before going back to study.

"I had to make a career change because of my disability."

One-on-one time with her art tutor was vital but her increasing deafness made her work harder.

"I’ve been able to focus on attention to detail with my other senses."

A hearing aid and note taker helped as well.

She also volunteers at the James Wallace Arts Trust, Auckland Art Fair and Titirangi Community Arts Council.

She’s received a Gordon Harris Fine Art Award and a National Foundation for the Deaf scholarship. This is the second time she’s taken part in the art show.

"There’s hundreds of artists from all over the country. It’s important in life to do something that you are passionate about."

View Tania’s work on www.taniasunde.com or visit www.nzaffordableartshow.co.nz for information on the art weekend.

- © Fairfax NZ News