Earthsea Gallery

Farewell Spit, which has been formed from sand drifting northwards from the West Coast, is the world’s largest sandspit. Farewell Spit is NZ’s most significant wading bird habitat and has been designated a ‘Wetland of International Importance’. Although access is restricted, the public can walk 4 km down the outer beach and 2.5 km down the sheltered southern side. On these tidal flats many whale strandings occur. Although I am drawn to outer beach with its 20m high sand dunes and wild Tasman Sea, I have found it a real challenge to paint the sea in a way that reflects its incredible force and energy. Although you can feel the movement in the water, this painting is quite restful.