Dave Sotogi

Dave Sotogi is a Christchurch-based artist working in oil paint. His practice spans landscape, New Zealand flora and fauna, and portraiture, often featuring bold colour and strong compositions.

Before becoming a full-time painter, Sotogi spent over a decade in graphic design. This background informs his confident use of form, structure, and visual impact. His move to oil painting was a natural progression, and he quickly found support from collectors.

Sotogi is largely self-taught, crediting perseverance and a hands-on approach over formal training. He moves easily between more abstract works and detailed subjects, giving his paintings wide appeal. Colour is central to his practice—he uses considered combinations to build atmosphere and emotional weight. He creates surfaces that feel rich, layered, and alive.