Sanderson are delighted to congratulate Simon Kaan on being awarded the Frances Hodgkins Fellowship 2027 at the University of Otago Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka.
Kaan has developed a distinctive visual language over a career spanning more than three decades. Working across painting, printmaking and performance, his practice is deeply informed by whakapapa, place and the intersections of his Kāi Tahu, Chinese and Pākehā heritage. Born in Ōtepoti Dunedin in 1971, Kaan's connection to the landscapes, histories and communities of Te Waipounamu has remained fundamental to his work.
Established in 1962, the Frances Hodgkins Fellowship plays an important role in the development of contemporary art in Aotearoa, being awarded to many of the country's leading artists; providing them with the time and space to undertake a sustained period of research and artistic development.
The Fellowship is particularly resonant for Simon whose practice has been profoundly shaped by Ōtepoti and whose previous tutors, including Marilynn Webb ONZM, are alumni of the programme.
"Simon is an artist of extraordinary depth and generosity, and we are incredibly proud to see his contribution to contemporary art in Aotearoa recognised by the Fellowship. Ōtepoti is inseparable from Simon's practice - its whenua, moana, histories and communities have informed his work throughout his career. We are excited to see what emerges from this period." - Lydia Cowpertwait, Director of Sanderson.
"This fellowship is providing me with the opportunity to concentrate on and look to the next phase of my practice. Having the space to make works full time again will allow me to extend my visual language through new approaches, in scale and medium, leading to a new body of explorative work.' - Simon Kaan
For available works by Simon and to be added to his preview list please email info@sanderson.co.nz
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