Nestled within the tranquil embrace of a small and sparsely populated town on the South Islands West Coast, Sacha's formative years unfolded in a haven untethered by the constraints of urban chaos. A crucible for her burgeoning creative mind, this locale set the stage for a remarkable artistic journey.
Fast forward a couple of decades, armed with a diploma in visual communication, Sacha embarked on a transformative chapter by contributing her artistic prowess to The Lord of the Rings trilogy. At Wētā Workshop in Wellington, she seamlessly wore the hats of illustrator, airbrush artist, creature designer, and concept artist. Six intensive and productive years marked this phase—an experience that would soon evolve into a pursuit of classical artistic expression.
Driven by an unwavering passion for classical art, Sacha found herself on a journey to Italy, where she immersed herself in the time-honored techniques of the Old Masters. This venture was a pivotal shift, a testament to her commitment to honing her craft beyond the contemporary.
In 2020, Sacha's dedication and artistic finesse were duly recognised when she claimed the top prize at the prestigious Adam Portrait Award. The acknowledgment didn't stop there; in 2022, she not only secured a highly commended prize but also earned the People's Choice award—an accolade echoing the resonance of her work with audiences.
Residing and working in Wellington, New Zealand, Sacha navigates the bustling tapestry of family life as she continues to create. Her paintings, exquisite in their classical allure, find homes on collectors' walls both in New Zealand and beyond. Beyond the canvas, her creations transcend traditional boundaries, making appearances on celluloid, in publications, and even gracing the surfaces of stamps—a testament to the expansive reach of her artistic vision.
In the ever-evolving journey of artistic exploration, Sacha Lees is presently immersed in the pursuit of knowledge and mastery and is currently undertaking her Masters in Fine Art at Massey University. This academic endeavour serves as a testament to her enduring commitment to further enrich her craft and contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary fine art.
