Virginia Watson, Artist.

Where to see my work in real life:
 - NEW -  on the Great Taste Trail! See pic.
 - Wall to Wall Art Gallery, 112 Bridge Street, Nelson.
 - Purpose Gallery, Iwa Road, Mapua
 - The Store at Nelson Suter Art Gallery
 - Classic Cars Museum Store
 - M'Kee Gallery in the Suter (occasionally)
 - My studio, or your home if local (use contact page)

About
Based in Nelson, New Zealand, I mostly paint two styles ...

Birds on Beaches & Mudflats

Observing coastlines and inlets up close by bike, I love the rhythm of the mud flats, tides, and the fabulous leggy birds.

Many of the world's migratory and wading birds are now rare or endangered, because of urban development and degradation of the coastal habitat. 

My paintings allude to the fragility of coastal habitats, but they're fun and colorful and observant of quirky birdy behaviors. My drive to paint these characters comes from a place of wanting to preserve and protect them.

New Zealand (South Island) Landscapes

A born and bred South Island Kiwi, I've been surrounded by dramatic, peaky landscapes all my life. Now I paint them.

My paintings are all places I love, and have usually cycled through.

Art Journey
I learned to paint as an adult NCEA student in 2004, and for years dabbled on and off between family, projects, and work.

In 2018 I left an executive job and a board of directors position, for more freedom and adventure.

I started painting my adventures, then exhibiting work at art events, then in galleries and website. Now it's my actual job, and I love every minute of it.