Where has the first half of this year gone? It’s been a busy and environmentally bumpy start to the year here in Auckland.

I’ve been beavering away in my studio, preparing for an exhibition in Kumeu with two of my Wayfind peers, Iulia and Linley. Iulia is a ceramicist, and Linley works with textiles and together the three of us are presenting an exhibition exploring themes around feminine traditions in a modern world. I’m so excited to share a body of my work all in one place!

I’d love for you to join us at the opening on Saturday the 10th June from 2pm to 4pm. Please come along, and feel free to invite anyone else who may be interested.

There’s some great spots to have lunch out that way beforehand Hallertau Brewery being one of my favorites!

In other news, I’m in the final week of a three month art course that I’ve been taking on-line. It’s called the Creative Visionary Program and it’s the second time I’ve taken it. It’s been so inspiring and overwhelmingly information laden at times, I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to take it again. It’s amazing how different my approach has been this time. I’ve been able to go so much deeper into the information, having had the opportunity to put into practice all the things I learnt the first time. I also knew that I could expect to feel overwhelmed with the sheer volume of knowledge being shared, so I’ve been able to observe the feeling without making up all the self-doubting stories I indulged in the first-time round!

I’m reminded that there will always be more to learn and part of the pleasure of creating art is the constant desire to improve and evolve your work.

Here’s a little peek at one of my new paintings that will be going into the exhibition at Kumeu.

I’m also delighted to be in the company of some amazing New Zealand artists at the Lysaght Watt Trust Art Award in Hawera at the moment. This exhibition runs until the 17th of June and would be well worth checking out if you happen to be in the Taranaki area. This little painting of mine, ‘Float’ is on display there.

Float, 500mm round, mixed media on cradled wood panel

On that cheerful note, remember I’m always happy to have a visitor to my studio if anyone’s interested in viewing my work in person or just popping in for a cup of tea and a chat. Send me an email and we can arrange it.

I hope the first half of 2023 has been kind to you!