Artist's Bio

"Beauty and realness of the natural world is what captivates me. I do not paint real scenes or situations as a photographic camera would capture, although I attempt to paint reality.

Much of my work is intuitive, opening with a vision often upon a waking moment, followed by a desperate scribble into a sketchbook. An imaginary stage is conceived, personifying a piece de resistance of nature, and with a little pain, much patience and a whole lot of joy my next painting is born. I liken my paintings to children, the bond formed during the process of creation is strong, and they feel like loved ones when I send them out into the world.

Amplifying the compassion and warmth of these heart-filled creatures, who live in the moment, I verge into portraiture. Placing Tui and Piwakawaka upon pedestals, I admire their wisdom and integrity through stories and legends which have been told. I introduce objects of sentimental value to reflect their importance in an attempt to bring awareness of their fragile existence, an ongoing essence throughout my work.

"A black moment is the moment when the real message of transformation is going to come. At the darkest moment comes the light" - Joseph Campbell.

Just as even the smallest candle burns brighter in the dark, out of the darkness emerge my creatures of light and light-heartedness." - Jane Crisp 2013