Lead by the heart

02/04/2026

I tried something new last weekend! 🎨

I attempted man's best friend portraits for the first time and really enjoyed capturing their unique personalities in their eyes 🐶 🐾

13/03/2026

Very powerful to see art in an exhibition space all with a story to tell and connections to brain injury which is something near and dear to my heart!

Honoured to have my art included and my brain Injury Awareness month for March painting featured in their advertising!

"Our story" Exhibition in Hastings arranged and hosted by Brain Injury Hawke's Bay

11/03/2026

Something different!
This little cutie is for a Baby shower card :)

01/03/2026

Love my art spreading a message :)

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Welcome, it's great to have you here!

We are kicking things off with art, because this painting tells a story. Read more below.

--

This painting was created in recognition of Brain Injury Awareness Month and reflects themes of adaptation, identity, hope, and guardianship. Each native bird has been thoughtfully chosen for its symbolism.

The tūī represents adaptation and finding one’s voice. Known for their ability to mimic and learn speech, tūī were once prized by Māori chiefs who trained them to speak, symbolising communication, resilience, and the courage to speak up. The fantail (pīwakawaka) is associated with change, lived experience, and a connection to the spiritual world, while also reminding us to find moments of joy and lightness through its playful nature. The kingfisher (kōtare) symbolises awareness and guardianship, reflecting our shared responsibility to protect, support, and care for one another. The kiwi represents worthiness and sacrifice, drawing on the story of the kiwi giving up its beautiful wings to protect the forest from bug infestation—an enduring symbol of quiet strength and selflessness.

The green ribbon, is recognised as the symbol for brain injury awareness, represents new growth and hope. Its bright green colour reflects healing and renewal, while the ribbon curling into a kōru symbolises new life, fresh starts, and ongoing growth.

The painting was created by a BINZ Board member with lived experience of brain injury. Through watercolour painting, she has found a way to retain her sense of identity, support her mental health, and embrace adaptability. Working with watercolour—fluid, unpredictable, and expressive—mirrors the journey of living with brain injury: learning to adapt, to let go of control, and to move forward with resilience and compassion.

---

This painting will be part of the exhibiton 'Our Story'. This exhibition is fast becoming a highlight of our year. "Our Story" runs from 10 to 21 March 2026, at the Hastings Community Arts Centre on Russell Street, Hastings.

We'd love to see you there!