ROBERTA QUEIROGA

Exploring gesture, memory, and spatial experience through movement across places, histories, and personal archives

unapologetically bold

Roberta Queiroga is a contemporary artist whose practice unfolds at the intersection of gesture, energy, and spatial awareness. Trained as an architect, she brings a nuanced understanding of space, rhythm, and materiality to her abstract compositions, where instinctive, mark-making meets a refined, architectural sensibility.

Born in Brazil and shaped by life across four continents, her work carries a rich cultural resonance. Influences from Brazil, Portugal, Japan, and Aotearoa New Zealand converge into a visual language that is both intuitive and expressive, rooted in movement, and increasingly informed by memory, displacement, and the traces across places.

Her practice has been recognised internationally. She has exhibited at the Auckland Museum, been a Parkin Prize finalist, represented New Zealand in a global exhibition in Dubai, and undertaken an artist residency in Japan, which continues to inform her explorations of line, space, and rhythm. 

The artist, Roberta Queiroga, a woman in a gray sweater smiling, leaning on a table with paint bottles and brushes, with yellow and black abstract art in the background.
Artwork displayed at the Auckland Museum, split vertically into two halves: one white with black and gray splatters and smudges, the other black with white splatters and lines, creating a dynamic abstract composition.

inside out reverse

Inside Out Reverse is a series of diptychs exploring the emotional dualities of living between places. Between the “self” here and the “self” elsewhere. The work reflects on layered identities, memory, and the invisible tensions that shape a sense of belonging.

Exhibited at Auckland Museum, 2023
Mixed media on raw linen, 210 x 210 cm

The continuous dialogue between Intuition and Rationality Chapters I, II and III

This triptych explores the ongoing interplay between intuition and rationality across different phases of my life. The shifting background colours reflect these stages, while the black strokes embody the enduring presence of intuition, and the white gestures mark the rational structures shaped over time.

Rather than opposing forces, these elements coexist, forming a visual narrative of an evolving inner balance.

Acrylic on canvas, framed in rimu wood
61 x 135 cm

Abstract painting with horizontal panels in red, orange, and yellow, with black, white, and gray brush strokes.

THE DIVORCE DRESS

The Divorce Dress emerges from a moment of personal rupture, an exploration of endings, transformation, and the material traces left behind. The work reflects on the shifting structures of identity, where absence, memory, and resilience intertwine.

Suspended between fragility and strength, the piece holds both what is lost and what is reconfigured.

Mixed media installation
Parkin Prize Finalist, 2022

ENERGY

An exploration of gesture as a carrier of movement and intensity, where each mark holds immediacy and rhythm. The series engages a heightened chromatic register, particularly yellow, responding to the intensity of light and heat, informed in part by time spent in Recife, Brazil.

  • Abstract painting with black brushstrokes and splatters on yellow background.

    DUO

    A collaborative piece created by Roberta Queiroga and Ito Junichi in Japan, 2025

    Acrylic and sumi-ink blend

  • Abstract black graffiti-style art on a yellow background.

    Infinite Strata

    A piece about Legacy. Created in Brazil, exhibited in Dubai, 2025

    Acrylics on canvas - 100 X 100cm

  • An abstract painting with a bright yellow background and bold, black splashes and strokes forming a swirling, chaotic pattern.

    Tidal Composition - Swell

    Acrylics on canvas - 100 X 100cm

  • Abstract graffiti art with bold black spray strokes on a yellow background.

    Tidal Composition - Pulse Diptych

    Acrylics on canvas - 200 X 100cm (part 1)

  • An abstract painting with black, strokes and splatters on an orange background.

    Tidal Composition - Pulse Diptych

    Acrylics on canvas - 200 X 100cm (part 2)

  • Abstract black ink brushstrokes on a yellow background with paint splatters.

    Tidal Composition - Ripple

    Acrylics on canvas - 100 X 100cm

  • Abstract painting with a yellow background and black brushstrokes.

    Brasa 04

    The warmth of glowing embers

    Acrylics on canvas - 60 X 60cm

  • Abstract black brushstroke art on yellow background with a black border.

    Tidal Composition I

    Acrylics and mixed media on canvas - framed

    85 X 85cm

  • Abstract painting with a black upper half and a yellow lower half, framed and hanging on a wall.

    Tidal composition II

    Acrylics and mixed media on canvas - framed

    85 X 85cm

  • Abstract painting featuring a large black handprint on a yellow background with black paint splatters.

    Brasa 02

    The warmth of glowing embers

    Acrylics on canvas - 80 X 60cm

  • Abstract black brushstroke painting on yellow background with splatters.

    Brasa 03

    The warmth of glowing embers

    Acrylics on canvas - 61 X 62cm

  • Abstract yellow painting with black ink splatters and spiral design.

    NOIR + ENERGY SERIES 01

    Acrylics and mixed media on canvas - framed

    103 X143cm

  • Yellow background with black abstract line drawings of circles and small ink splashes.

  • Yellow round object with black abstract line drawing in the center, featuring three intersecting loops.

    Embrace

    approx. 75cm diameter

  • Abstract painting with a yellow background and black swirling, looping line across two canvas panels.

    Umbilical

    170 X 200cm

  • Abstract painting with bold yellow background and large black brushstrokes with splatters.

    61 x 61 cm

  • Abstract painting with black, curly, and splattered paint on a yellow background.

    61 x 61 cm

  • Abstract black ink sketches of two apples on a yellow background.

    Let's Celebrate

    120 X 120cm

  • Abstract artwork with black and white splatters and swirls on an orange background.

    Celebration

    120 X 120cm

  • Abstract artwork with black line drawings on an orange background, resembling a smiley face with large oval, two smaller circles, and a straight line beneath.

    The Sun Is Here

    100 X 100cm

noir

Working within a restrained black-on-black palette, this series explores nuance, texture, and the quiet tension between presence and absence. Subtle variations in surface respond to light, gradually revealing forms that shift with movement and invite a slower, more attentive gaze.

  • Circus

    78.5 x 103cm

  • Abstract black and white artwork with dynamic brushstrokes and splatters.

    Elephants 1

    78.5 x 103cm

  • Abstract modern artwork featuring black, white, and gray elements with a prominent curved shape on a black background.

    elephants 2

    78.5 x 103cm

  • elephants 3

    78.5 x 103cm

  • Sugar Loaf

    Sugarloaf

    120 x 120cm

  • Black framed artwork depicting a minimalist, abstract heart outline in shades of dark gray and black.

    Elephants 8

    100 x 100cm

  • Black electronic device with a liquid drop on its surface and a small logo or sticker at the bottom left corner.

    ballerinas 2

    45 x 54.5cm

  • A framed minimalist black artwork featuring a single thin white line that curves and loops with a small black and white tag at the bottom displaying a stylized 'a' logo.

    Ballerinas 1

    45 x 54.5cm

  • Black square display with a simple outline of eyeglasses and a small lens, with a small logo at the bottom center.

    ballerinas 3

    45 x 54.5cm

A series of elegant abstract minimalistic and monochromatic paintings predominantly black on black. 

In this series I embrace simplicity while incorporating subtle yet powerful movements evoking emotions, engaging the viewer's imagination and inviting contemplation.

The minimalistic approach of the compositions aimed at reducing the visual noise and inviting the viewers for introspection, by projecting their thoughts, memories and experiences onto the artworks.

Contemplation collection

  • Abstract black and white artwork depicting a bridge with four rectangular sections, framed in black.
  • Abstract black and white artwork with vertical streaks and textured brushstrokes, framed in black.
  • Abstract artwork with black and dark brown vertical brushstrokes on a white background, framed in black.
  • Abstract black and white painting with vertical streaks and textured brushstrokes framed in black.
  • A black square with a white minimalist abstract circle design in the center.
  • Black abstract painting with horizontal lines and a textured block, framed in black.
  • Abstract black and white artwork with a black circle on a textured black background, framed in black.

eeny meeny miney moe collection

  • Abstract black ink splatter painting with circular and rectangular shapes, framed and mounted on a textured wall.

    49 x 49cm

  • Abstract black ink painting on white paper in a black frame, mounted on a concrete wall.

    49 x 49cm

  • Abstract black ink painting on white background framed on a concrete wall.

    49 x 49cm

  • Abstract black ink splatter artwork in a black frame on a concrete wall.

    49 x 49cm

  • Black abstract ink art on white background, framed on a textured concrete wall.

    49 x 49cm

  • Abstract black and gray painting with splashes, framed and mounted on a concrete wall.

    49 x 49cm

street carnival Transformation

‍ ‍Inspired by the multi-sensory energy of the street carnivals of Recife and Olinda (Brazil), this series translates colour, rhythm, and movement into layered abstract compositions.

Built through successive painted layers, some concealed, others revealed through subtle textures, and finished with resin, the works capture a sense of vibrancy, fluidity, and celebration.

A departure from my usual restrained palette, this collection embraces a more instinctive and exuberant language, shaped by the pulse of carnival rhythms such as frevo.

  • Abstract colorful artwork with shapes and lines, including a large black outlined loop and smaller details, framed in black.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

  • Abstract colorful artwork with a black scribble overlay, featuring yellow, red, orange, and blue shapes, framed in black.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

  • Abstract artwork with colorful shapes and lines, featuring a prominent black line drawing in the center on a black background. Frame and a small tag at the bottom left.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

  • An abstract painting with bold black lines, colorful shapes, and splashes of turquoise, orange, yellow, and red, framed in black.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

  • Abstract painting with colorful geometric shapes and a large black number 0 outlined in black.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

  • Abstract painting with black line drawing of a stethoscope on a colorful background of red, orange, yellow, and blue shapes.

    45 (w) x 54.5cm (h) - framed

synergy

An exploration of convergence, where distinct elements come together, not in opposition, but in reinforcement. The work reflects a continuous interplay of forces, expanding and evolving through their interaction.

Mixed media, 150 X 150 cm

Modern indoor space with a concrete wall featuring a large abstract black and white painting divided by a thin vertical gold line.

selected exhibitions and projects

  • In Between - it's still me

    Solo exhibition

    January/February 2026

    Xhuba Gallery, Auckland, New Zealand

  • PARKIN PRIZE 2022

    — FINALIST —

    New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts

    Wellington, New Zealand

    Read About

  • Artist Residency in Japan 2025

    Japan 2025

    Supported by the Creative New Zealand Development Fund

  • Art Connects Women - Dubai

    8th Edition of Art Connects Women.

    New Zealand Artist Ambassador 2025 - exhibition, book, conference and award.

  • Auckland Museum

    2023

    Auckland Museum

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Beyond celebration

    Solo Exhibition 2024

    Eyes on Fire Gallery

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • SOLO - Pop-up

    September 2025

    Spacefor, Auckland

  • DUO - POP-UP EXHIBITION

    Roberta Queiroga x Junichi Ito May 2025

    Spacefor, Auckland, New Zealand

  • ART OF WINE 2025

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Art House Tour 2024

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • ArtPoint 2023, 2024, 2025

    Auckland. New Zealand

  • Oenophiles' Brush 2026

    Painting cityscapes with wine as paint.

    Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand

  • NZ Art Show 2024, 2025

    Wellington, New Zealand

  • Saint Kentingern Inaugural Art Expo

    2024 Auckland, New Zealand

  • MAGS Art Show 2024

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Bright and Beautiful

    2024

    Group Art Show

    Flagstaff Gallery

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • ELMER'S ŌTAUTAHI ELEPHANT PARADE

    2023 - 2024

    Public Art - sculpture trail

    Christchurch, New Zealand

  • Kiwi Art Trail 2023

    Public Art - Sculpture Trail

    Wynyard Quarter

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • King's College Art Exhibition 2023

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • MERGE POP UP GALLERY

    2023

    Ponsonby Central

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Art in the park 2023, 2025

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • 30 TIMES 30 - Flagstaff Gallery 30th Anniversary

    Group Exhibition

    Flagstaff Gallery

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • 2023 ART SALON

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Craigs Aspiring Prize 2023

    — FINALIST —

    Wanaka, New Zealand

  • Hello - SOLO POP UP EXHIBITION

    2022

    The Lake House Arts

    Auckland - New Zealand

  • Solo Exhibition

    2022

    B:Hive - Smales Farm

    Auckland New Zealand

  • Solo Exhibition

    2022 - 2023

    The Spencer on Byron Hotel

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • MAGS Art Show 2023 10th Anniversary

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • ARTEX 2023

    Elephant Hill Winery

    Hawkes Bay, New Zealand

  • Baradene Art Show 2023

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Auckland Art Show 2023

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Kumeu Arts Awards 2023

    — FINALIST —

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • WANAKA ARTS LABOUR WEEKEND 2022

    Wanaka New Zealand

  • Emerging Artist Award 2022

    — FINALIST —

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • 2022 ART SALON

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Wanaka Arts 2023

    Wanaka New Zealand

  • WATERSHED GALLERY

    2022

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • 30 x 30

    2023

    Lakes District Museum & Gallery

    Arrowtown, New Zealand

  • SPRING EXHIBITION 2022

    The New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts

    Wellington, New Zealand

  • WARRIOR WOMEN

    2022

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • The Trusts 35th Arts Exhibition - 2022

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • 300 NZAFA GALA EXHIBITION

    2022

    New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts

    Wellington, New Zealand

  • CORPORATE DISPLAY FOR THE MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

    2022

    Spark Headquarters

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Spring Soirée 2022

    Auckland, New Zealand

  • Art Salon 2024

    Auckland, New Zealand

Selected writing and reviews

  • Creative New Zealand

    March 2026

    News

    READ

  • New Zealand Arts Review

    February 2026 Reviewed by John Daly-Peoples

    READ

  • It's Interval

    January 2025 Interview by Christy Quilliam

    READ

  • Parkin Prize

    March 2023

    READ

  • Ponsonby News

    July 2024

    Page 62

    READ

  • Ponsonby news

    May 2023

    Page 79

    READ

Contact me

hello@robertaqueiroga.com


+64 211809757