That time of the year again..

Hi everyone,

We’re visiting Auckland and I’ve just finished reading my daughters copy of NZ magazine “Your Home and Garden’ which is always a treat (when I’m supposed to be helping her out with the kids and household jobs!). My favourite article was a walk through of Wellington builder Nikki Kettle’s lovely bright home. When asked about her style she replied “Joyful” . At last I think that I’ve found the right word to describe my painting style! Usually I squirm uneasily when people ask about my “style”. I paint what I paint because it makes me feel good – and I’m delighted when my work makes others feel good too. I don’t usually portray deep meaningful things or angsty subjects- the world is full enough of those. I’d rather provide an escape for people from all of that and I hope that my paintings will transport you to a (usually) peaceful and beautiful place, and make you smile.

2023 has been a busy year , though in some ways I don’t feel that I’ve achieved very much. The highlight has been spending time with kids and grandies, and enjoying Robbies company a bit more as he “sort of” retires .

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about time – how much is left to me? What are my priorities for enjoying it? We have lost a few friends recently and others are facing major health issues, so it’s time to reboot.

To this end I’ve decided to step back from my my membership of the Nelson collective “Wall to Wall Gallery”. I’ve enjoyed being a part of this energetic bunch of artists for around five years. and will miss their company , but I’ve decided that I need to commit more time to family and my own gallery, rather than traveling back and forth to Nelson. So if you want to check my work out at 112 Bridge St you have until Tuesday 9th January!
My studio, Korimako, at St Arnaud will be open whenever I’m here, usually 10am – 5pm during the summer, so please call in.
I’m also beginning to think about my scheduled solo exhibition at the Suter in about 18 months, which sounds like a long time off but I know from past experience that time will pass in a flash! And we’re planning a travel adventure next year, fingers crossed.

Other news from the studio?

The Wai Knot watercolour group is up and running , planning to get together and paint in a nice spot each month – please contact me if you’d like to go on our email list. Painters of all levels are welcome to join in for a very casual watercolour session.

My prints will shortly be available framed and ready to hang (though you can still buy them unframed for easy posting). Framed with a simple back frame and white mat , A4 size $95 and larger ones $150. A4 copies available of my Tui, Korimako, Kaka, Tomtit , Kea, Pukeko and Jetty , larger size of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Black Valley Stream.

My native birds card packs are available from my website store. My calendars have now sold out – sorry if you missed out and thanks to all who’ve bought them. I hope you enjoy the 13 paintings throughout 2024.

I’ll be thinking about next years workshop schedule after Christmas, so please let me know if you’d like to put your name on the email list for those.

I’d like to wish you all a very Joyful(!) Christmas and a peaceful and healthy 2024. Thank you for your amazing support once again this year – paintings are no use without a viewer to enjoy them.

Have a safe and happy holiday and I hope to see you if you’re coming past,
Jan