Paul Radford (1957-2024) was undoubtedly a prominent artist in the island creative community and in New Zealand. He had a considerable following and a well-established reputation. But above all, he was all simply a wonderful friend.

As an artist he excelled as a brilliant and tasteful colourist, always avoiding offensive or loud juxtapositions. He was also very tenacious and thoroughly explored a particular theme before moving on to his next source of inspiration. Over his long and prolific career, his attention moved from floral motifs, to heads, female forms and sensuous guitars, birds, historical icons, ultimately culminating in his playfully insolent stylised figures dancing joyfully, infused with both sarcasm and sensitivity, over his trademark made believe wooden boards. The culmination of his mastery and artfulness, honed over decades of diligent work.

Paul had always been painting. In his own words: “This is what I do.” He lives on through his paintings and sculptures, held in many public and private collections around the world.

As clearly reflected in his art, he was man of knowledge, class, charm, nuances, taste, style and finesse… a gentleman of distinction.

Olivier, Kiya, Jenny, Mary, Maria, Katie and Jay.