Earthsea Gallery

Wharariki Beach is a wild and dramatic place in the north-western corner of Golden Bay. Here, severe wind and wave activity have carved huge off-shore arches, stone bridges and caverns and caves from the coastal cliffs. Massive sand-dunes have formed from the large volumes of sand carried up the coast on tidal currents. On a calm, sunny day it is so hard to believe the forces of the elements that resulted in this dramatic landscape. This is the second painting I have done of the Archway Islands. I arrived just after dawn and waited for the sun to light up the Islands before photographing this scene. We recently had the pleasure of escorting a French film crew around Golden Bay while they filmed for a TV documentary. I was one of 3 artists/people chosen in NZ and they profiled the most scenic areas of Golden Bay through my work. I carried this painting,my easel and palette onto Wharariki Beach and set up in front of the Archway Islands while they filmed me from the sand-dunes. It was a daunting experience for someone who doesn't like to be in the limelight, but a truly gratifying one as well. Many thanks to Jef, Jean and Anne from Patly Productions!