Such a lot has happened since the update.  Not just for me but for the country and for the world.  That mischievous messenger, Covid-19, has made itself felt in every nook and cranny of life.  I am hoping that enough people will heed the warnings and begin to concentrate on the health of the planet, first and foremost, and most urgently.  Covid-19 is surely a symptom of our disregard for Papatuanuku and our place within nature.  We are not separate from nature and the more we allow that assumption, the less enhanced our lives become.  Art is one way of blending in with the magnificence of this planet but even we artists can not just bury our heads in the sand.

After lockdown it became necessary for me to leave my studio.  The tumbleweeds were all but blowing through Harbour Street and although New Zealanders began moving around again, not many were finding their way up to my cold studio.  Further to this, winter made it more attractive to me to work from home.  And to this end, I have produced a reasonable body of painting and written work.

Something lovely that happened during these strange times; I was among a handful of local artists featured in the Oamaru Mail.  I have also had a poem published in the same newspaper.  I really appreciate the exposure that is given to myself and other local artists, not only for getting our work out there, but also, because art uplifts the lives of people and if ever there was a time for this, surely it is now.  What better than painting and poetry and stories, whether you are the artist, writer or the buyer.  Art uplifts us.

Yesterday I took my painting, Na Hinemoana, to the office of Liam Wairepo, local Labour candidate.  This is on loan up until the election, to reflect how Aotearoa is cradled and cherished within the arms and the heartbeat of the magnificent and now, beleaguered Pacific Ocean.  This was my inspiration to paint this onto canvas. I am trusting that Jacinda’s warm and human leadership will continue with this same nurturing quality.  All oceans have brought forth life and as Pacific people, we are now counting on this ocean to keep us separate from this pandemic, sadly sweeping the world.  I have always thought that this painting, Na Hinemoana, should be hung in a place that honors Aotearoa and all we stand for when at our very best, for it reflects the magical quality and beauty of these unique islands, that we all share.  

Mask up, stay safe and well.  Go Team Aotearoa!  
​
Colette

Thanks to visiting son Rawhiti for hanging Na Hinemoana and some of the larger works. He also bought screen and new shelving and set everything up...while as often as I could I kept creating  Sh'boom! Harbour Street studio is starting to feel amazing! 

My idea of a break!

This recently completed work PLAYTIME recieved Highly Commended at the 2020 Colin Wheeler Art Competition. 

So much fun setting myself up at the Harbour Street Studio! This is a working artists' studio and gallery; still working out retail options. You'll find me here most days of the week - usually later in the afternoon.
Visitors can wander up any time via the Collective Cafe downstairs (open 7 days a week). You are welcome to come and check out the art, make purchase enquiries or just come and say hello. 

- PAREIDOLIA is finished and two new works are underway - it must be spring! Not so easy to see in the photo but there are sprinkles of green-filled circles hidden amongst the black and white (towards the right of the painting) which gives an interesting effect.  Like all art, the lighting on the original work creates the last effect that the artist is looking to produce and can only be fully realised when viewing the real thing. 

Gary & Sir Tim coming to The Manor Estate this Saturday 14th of September for a night of comedy. Liz Heenan of The Manor has asked me to hang my work for the occasion. Still a few tickets available - if you're in Oamaru come along - doors open 6.30pm!

Just got my brand new DL flyer back from the wonderful Alan at Brackens Print, Oamaru. It's double-sided and folds into thirds. Colours are stunning in hardcopy. 

I'm posting it out to galleries, hotels, and private collectors this week. Contact me if you would like one! If you have suggestions of other places that might be interested (galleries, cafes, tourist spots) please let me know in the comments.