Josh Currie

PHOTO: Josh Currie is keeping the “dying art” of architectural hand-drawing alive with illustrations of Kiwi homes. Photo: Josh Draws Houses / Supplied

Tauranga-based illustrator Josh Currie believes it’s a deep fondness, not pride, that motivates Kiwis to commission hand-drawn portraits of their homes. Often, clients say, “My house is really ugly but I love it. Could you draw it for me?” Josh, inspired by his architect grandfather, developed his detailed, hand-drawn style at Auckland University’s School of Architecture.

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A pigment ink drawing of a villa with nikau palms on either side.

Josh’s drawing of a Ponsonby villa with nikau palms on either side. Photo: Josh Currie / @joshdrawshouses

He celebrates the unique charm of New Zealand homes, especially pre-1940s villas and bungalows, capturing their essence in ink. Currie’s works often depict memories, including houses lost to the Christchurch earthquakes and other tragedies.

A pigment ink drawing of a two-storey building

Josh’s drawing of Tanuki Japanese Restaurant on Queen Street, Auckland Photo: Josh Currie / @joshdrawshouses

A pigment ink drawing of the wharenui at Makirikiri Marae in Dannevirke.

Josh’s illustration of the wharenui at Makirikiri Marae in Dannevirke. Photo: Josh Currie / @joshdrawshouses

SOURCE: RNZ