You probably know me best with a camera in hand, running around on wedding days, wrangling toddlers, or tucking swaddled newborns into cosy baskets for their first photoshoot.
But when I’m not behind the lens capturing memories for my beautiful clients (yes, you), I’m tucked away in my little creative corner - making art!
My pieces are a wee bit different to my day-to-day work - crafted from goodies found out and about in nature (photographed, and left on-site - as they say, take only photos, leave only footprints). . Feathers, seed pods, shells, blooms, even the odd twig or two (yes, really) - they all get a starring role in my framed prints. Think kaleidoscope, but with soul. I thought I’d take some time to break down the other side of my business - and give you a little peek behind the curtain to see how I craft my art pieces.
The art of making art
Each piece starts with a walk in nature - I mean, how good is that - what a way to start the day! I gather little bits and pieces from nature - things that catch my eye or make me stop and smile. I photograph them onsite, leave them as they were, and then when I’m back in the studio, I transform the images into intricate, kaleidoscopic pieces. There’s symmetry, repetition, balance - and it’s a super satisfying (and time consuming) process.
But it doesn’t stop there. I often gild the pieces by hand, layer in ceramic elements, and spend hours making sure every detail feels just right. Some of these gilded and ceramic elements take four hours or more to finish (cue sore back and very glittery fingers).
It’s a little bit magic and a lot of mahi. And honestly? I love it. It’s a different world to my client work - and I absolutely love both sides to my creative business.
Art shows are a whole vibe!
A few times a year, I pack up my prints, load up the car (with some VERY careful bubble-wrapping) and head off to one of Aotearoa’s amazing art shows. These usually run over 2–3 days and feel a bit like a supermarket - but if supermarkets were filled with local artists, stunning original pieces, and the best chats you’ll ever have in a room full of creative humans.
Here’s why I love these shows:
• You get to meet the maker. It’s not just about buying - it’s about connection, the story behind the artwork, and the artist’s journey. It’s hard not to get drawn into an art piece even more when you know about the incredible work and meaning that has gone into it
• Supportive, wonderful people. Every show I’ve been part of has been incredibly warm, encouraging and full of artists cheering each other on. In a world where everything feels like a competition - it’s so refreshing to be surrounded by likeminded, supportive humans.
• No pressure to purchase. Come, wander, enjoy. Soak up the inspiration and say hi! Art shows aren’t just about sales - they’re about experiencing art, talking to artists, talking about art - all things art, with none of the pressure (but hey, if you fall in love with an artwork, it’s a great opportunity to take a gorgeous piece home!
The art show prep (aka: my art show marathon)
You might think an art show just means showing up with some prints and a smile, right? Oh no, my friend. The real work starts months before the show even begins.
Here’s how it usually goes:
1. 8-10 months out: Apply to be part of a show (fingers and toes crossed).
2. Once accepted: Start planning what to take - usually a mix of existing pieces and new creations I’m dreaming up.
3. 6-8 weeks out: Order frames, lock in final designs, and prep for printing.
4. 2-4 weeks out: Print and prep! Every detail counts, and I’m a perfectionist when it comes to print quality and attention to detail. .
5. Last 2-3 weeks: The final stretch - gilding, adding ceramic elements, and framing.
It’s a full-on creative sprint, and I’m usually fuelled by coffee, audiobooks, and a lot of late-night clean-ups. But seeing it all come together on the walls at a show? Worth every minute!
If you’ve never been to an art show, I can’t recommend them enough - even if you’re “just looking.” There’s something so lovely about wandering through a space filled with creativity and meeting the people behind the work. You can follow along on my socials to find out where I’ll be popping up next, or join my email list for updates (plus sneak peeks of new pieces as they’re created).
The next one I’ll be at is coming up soon super soonon King’s Birthday Weekend - so if you’re in Wellington, come and join me at the TSB Arena for the NZ Art Show!
Whether you’re an art lover, a curious browser, or someone who just loves a good yarn, I’d love to see you at the next one!
Juggling art and photography keeps me inspired - and pretty busy! I feel so lucky to work across both worlds, meeting incredible people, creating meaningful images, and staying connected to creativity in all its forms. Thanks for being here and for cheering me on in every piece I make - whether it’s a newborn photo or a kaleidoscopic print crafted from pieces found on a beach walk.
Until the next art show!
Mel
