New Zealand – Semi Abstract Artist
Contempary
Jo
Rankin
Based in Taupō. Creating abstract and semi-abstract works inspired by colour, place, and intuition.
Creative
Journey
Artist Statement
MEDIUM & PROCESS
Acrylics and mixed media allow me to build layers through glazing, translucency, texture, and colour — creating depth and richness within each painting.
STYLE
Working in abstract and semi-abstract forms, my paintings evolve intuitively, inviting personal interpretation and emotional connection.
PLACE
Based in Taupō, subtle elements of landscape and environment are gently woven into each work.
CONTINUING PRACTICE
Learning remains central to my process with ongoing exploration shaping every new painting.
MY
STORY
After formal study and tuition, including completing my diploma through Artists University Network USA in 2015, I continued to develop my practice through workshops and ongoing learning. Each experience contributed to refining my own visual language and confidence as an artist.
In March 2019, I was selected as one of five New Zealand artists to be filmed by Colour In Your Life Australia. My 30-minute episode was distributed worldwide via YouTube and international ART TV channels, marking a significant milestone in my artistic journey.
“The journey continues. Happiness is being an artist.”

PATCHWORK FIELDS. 1.4 x 800 Framed Acrylic on Canvas. $1950

A TOUCH OF THE BLUES. 760 x 500. Framed Mixed media on Canvas. $780

GRIDLOCKED. 650 x 550. Mixed media on canvas. $780

DANCING LEAVES. 1mtr x 1mtr. Mixed media on Canvas. $2600

FLORAL FRENZY. 620 x 470 Mixed media on Canvas . $640

WATCHING WATERWAYS 620x470 Mixed media on canvas $640
Recognition
& Experience
I hold a Diploma in Abstraction from Artists University Network USA and an Abstraction Diploma from MoMA Museum & Gallery, New York. I am a member of the Art to Life Creative Visionary Worldwide Programme and have been selected for the Hansford & Sons Fine Art UK Emerging Artists Platform.
My work has been exhibited throughout New Zealand and internationally, with paintings held in private collections both locally and overseas.
Diploma in Abstraction |
Artists University Network USA
Abstraction Diploma |
MoMA Museum & Gallery, New York
Member |
Art to Life Creative Visionary Worldwide Programme
Selected Artist |
Hansford & Sons Fine Art UK (Emerging Artists Platform)
Taupo |
Active Arts Taupo – Certificate of Merit
New Zealand |
Multiple awards, solo exhibitions, and group exhibitions throughout New Zealand. Nanteen Cameron Interior Design Course.
Internationaly|
Represented by several galleries in New Zealand and internationaly
I have sold works both nationally and overseas and continue to paint commissioned pieces for valued clients while working as a full-time artist.
Framed mixed media on board - 700mm X 500mm
MOROCCAN HOLIDAY
900x600 Framed Acrylic on Canvas. $1200
AT MY TABLE
800 x 800 Acrylic on canvas. $1650
ABUNDANCE
800 x 800 Framed mixed media on Canvas. $1650
A TOUCH OF THE BLUES
620 x 510 Mixed media on Canvas. $580
THE GREAT DIVIDE
The
Gallery
Jo Rankin is a New Zealand artist based in Taupō. Her abstract and semi-abstract paintings are created to be lived with offering calm, balance, and space for reflection.
“I think a painting is more like the real world if it’s made out of the real world.”
Robert Rauschenberg | American mixed-media artist
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JO RANKIN
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