Arrival of Captain Cook; An incident in the Bay of Islands, 29 November 1769
The Haunt of the Moa, a scene in Puriri Forest
Lifespan: 86 years
Born: 1847, Ooty, India
early life and education
charles henry kennett watkins, a prominent figure in new zealand's art scene, was born on july 14, 1847, in ootacamund, india to major john watkins of the indian army. his life was marked by adaptability and artistic prowess. after attending wellington college and studying in switzerland and france, watkins pursued further studies that likely influenced his unique perspective on new zealand's landscapes and the maori culture.
artistic career and notable works
upon immigrating to new zealand at 27, watkins initially worked as a photographer before teaching in russell. in 1876, he became the first headmaster of the auckland free school of art, marking the beginning of his illustrious career. some of his notable works include:
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