Meet Beyonce Pene — Whitecliffe's Talented Artist Reflecting Māori and Ugandan Heritage

Explore the inspiring story of Beyonce Pene, a Fine Arts student at Whitecliffe College whose art vividly reflects her Māori and Ugandan heritage. Featured in Habitat by Resene, Beyonce’s journey highlights the importance of cultural expression and the support she’s received at Whitecliffe College.

At Whitecliffe College, we love to celebrate the success of our students. One such success story is Beyonce Pene, a talented artist whose work beautifully reflects her Māori and Ugandan heritage. Featured in Habitat by Resene, last year, Beyonce's journey highlights the power of cultural expression and the importance of a supportive educational environment.

Beyonce's art is a vibrant expression of her cultural roots. Each piece tells a story from the oral traditions passed down by her grandparents and mother. She often leaves her pieces untitled, inviting viewers to form their own interpretations and connect personally with her work.

Can you tell us about your background and how you decided to study Fine Art?

"My name is Beyonce, and I am studying Bachelor of Fine Arts at Whitecliffe. I’ve always had a passion for art since I was a kid, which drives me to be a fine art student. My first art teacher, who also studied here, influenced me a lot. Seeing his creativity made me believe I could achieve the same from Whitecliffe."

What inspires you as an artist?

"My cultural identity. I translate it through art, explore it, and experiment with different materials. This journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration continuously inspires my work."

Whitecliffe has been key in my growth. The studio space here is amazing – you get your own space and the freedom to be creative in your own way. The lecturers are excellent, pushing you to learn different techniques and expand your artistic boundaries.

What is next for you?

"I’m still navigating where I want to go, exploring different avenues. Being challenged and pushing out of your boundaries is essential for growth. Whitecliffe provides a great environment for that."

Beyonce's journey shows the power of cultural expression and a supportive educational environment. Her story inspires other students to embrace their heritage and find their unique voice. She encourages future students: "If you want to be challenged and push out of your boundaries, this is a good place. You get really good lecturers and make connections with like-minded peers."

Watch her story here!

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