Harakeke I (Where’s Wally?) is a textural, light-filled original from Kirsty Nixon’s Flora & Fauna collection—an artwork that revels in the quiet beauty of New Zealand’s native flax and the joy of close observation.

At first glance, it’s a bold and immersive study in green: strong blades of Harakeke (NZ flax) sweep vertically across the canvas in layered tones, some arching gracefully, others sharply angled. The textured surface invites the eye to trace the lines of each leaf, while glimpses of soft, grass-toned green and brilliant sky-blue peek through from the background, suggesting a sunlit hillside or open coastal flat in the height of summer.

Hidden within this study of form and movement is a small, native surprise—Wally the Wētā. This uniquely New Zealand insect, with its armoured legs and long antennae, rests quietly on one of the bending leaves. Endemic to Aotearoa, Wētā are ancient, nocturnal creatures—gentle and shy despite their prehistoric appearance. Spotting Wally is a quiet delight, much like discovering a hidden character in a Where’s Wally book (the name itself a playful nod to the classic visual game), encouraging viewers to slow down and look more deeply.

Kirsty shares, “I love the simplicity of the Harakeke on its own. Harakeke leaves are so lovely to paint—I get lost in time truly. It’s almost meditative. Harakeke I has a little native NZ friend gracing over one of the leaves—a nice little treat for fresh eyes to discover.”

Hand-painted and signed by the artist, Harakeke I (Where’s Wally) is created using high-quality, pigment-based acrylics on stretched cotton canvas, sealed with a fade-resistant archival varnish. It’s a quiet showstopper—rich with texture, movement, and a sense of wonder.

Shown alongside its sibling piece, Harakeke II, this pairing makes a striking visual statement—perfect for anchoring a feature wall, or bringing the texture and stillness of New Zealand’s wild flora into a thoughtfully curated space.

Your original Kirsty Nixon painting is a one-of-a-kind artwork. Caring for it properly will help preserve its beauty, value, and the connection it brings into your space for many years to come.

Each original has been hand-painted by Kirsty using high-quality, pigment-based acrylics on stretched cotton canvas, and sealed with a protective, fade-resistant archival varnish. These materials have been chosen for their exceptional longevity and vibrancy.

Please read the following care guidelines carefully to ensure the lasting preservation of your original artwork.

Handling
Minimise handling wherever possible. Always carry your painting by holding the stretcher bars or the outer frame (if framed), rather than the canvas itself. Avoid touching the painted surface directly, as natural oils from your skin can leave permanent marks. When placing or resting the painting, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and cushioned—never lay the artwork face-down.

Sunlight Exposure
Although sealed with a protective UV-resistant varnish, your painting should not be hung in direct sunlight. Over time, even the most durable pigments can fade if continuously exposed to harsh light. If your chosen hanging location receives occasional light exposure, consider UV-filtering glass or framing solutions for added protection.

Environment
Original paintings are best displayed in areas with stable temperature and humidity. Avoid hanging near sources of moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens, and keep away from direct airflow from heaters or air conditioning units. Fluctuations in humidity and temperature can weaken the canvas or cause warping over time.

Select a low-traffic location to avoid accidental bumps or scratches and hang your painting at a safe elevation—away from small children and pets.

Cleaning
Never use water, solvents, or cleaning products on your painting. To remove dust, gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth or use a clean, soft-bristle artist’s brush. Always use light pressure and avoid rubbing. Do not attempt to remove stubborn marks—seek professional conservation advice if necessary.

Storage and Transport
If you need to store or transport your original painting, wrap it in acid-free tissue paper or glassine, followed by a layer of bubble wrap for protection. Avoid using plastic directly against the canvas, as it can trap moisture and encourage mould growth. Always store in a dry, climate-controlled environment, ideally upright rather than flat.

For longer-term storage, consider using a sturdy art box or crate to prevent pressure on the canvas and accidental damage.

With thoughtful care and consideration, your original Kirsty Nixon painting will continue to offer joy, colour, and a peaceful sense of place—just as the artist intended.

Please note that the framing and in situ images are intended solely as visual inspiration, offering a contextual representation of the artwork within a styled environment and frame.

These mockups are not to scale and do not reflect the exact proportions of the artwork. For accurate sizing, kindly refer to the Artwork Dimensions provided above.