“The harsh, raking light and atmospheric effects found in Aotearoa New Zealand are something I feel compelled to paint. The vast, ever-changing sky and sea are my inspiration with all its dramatic changes and patterns – giving me a sense of peace and stillness, along with a sense of hope and awe.

Through my work I explore the relationship of colour and light, how light appears to shine brighter when a contrasting darkness is also present. Low light at the beginning & end of the day entrances me with the dramatic interplay of lost and found edges.

With the expansive skies, space and scale present in each painting I hope to evoke a personal response encouraging us to consider something larger than ourselves.

The concept of Tūrangawaewae is also important to me: to have my feet firmly planted where I stand. This past year has been about discovering my identity as an artist & as a New Zealander.”