I take pride in completing the production of a painting from start to finish (as far as possible). The process goes something like this..
Being inspired and gathering my own reference material , photos , sketches, words
I'd like to say that I use locally produced art materials - but sadly (as far as I know!) no one is making watercolour paint yet in New Zealand - ArtSpectrum made in Australia is the closest that I can get , and I do often use this. The same goes for paper - I have tracked down some made from harakeke (flax) which I intend to try in 2017, but most of my paper comes from Italy via Christchurch. I do try and support local suppliers and importers , though , where possible.
I always use archival artist grade materials to ensure my work will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Back to the process - once the painting is completed I do my own framing , again using the nearest suppliers of materials.
I cut my own mats, which gives me the freedom to decided whether I want to use single or double , or float paintings.
Framing.. I'm lucky that my Man has so far been kind enough to put my frames together for me, but he has just installed my underpinner so that I can do this part myself, too.
So the whole process from idea to finished painting hanging on the wall takes place inside Korimako Studio.
To be able to stand back and look at a painting I've completed is very satisfying , knowing that I've been able to not only paint the work but present it the way I want to. My paintings really are "Made in New Zealand".