Downtime captures a rare moment of stillness for two Kōtare (Kingfisher), perched just off-centre to the right within a richly layered coastal landscape. Nestled amongst Harakeke and Kawakawa, the birds sit within a dense pocket of native foliage that feels both protective and alive, as though the bush itself is holding them in quiet suspension.

To the right of the composition, the greenery opens toward a sparkling blue ocean horizon, where sea and sky meet in a wash of luminous colour. This shift from enclosed bush to open coastline creates a sense of breath and expansion, evoking the feeling of standing at the edge of land where the forest meets the sea.

The left side of the painting is filled with deep, textured greens, punctuated by small breaks of sky that allow light to filter through the canopy. These subtle openings soften the density of the foliage and enhance the atmospheric quality of the work, echoing the freshness of coastal air after rain or on a crisp spring morning.

The Kōtare, with their striking plumage and poised presence, are iconic inhabitants of Aotearoa’s waterways and coastlines. Known for their intelligence, sharp vision, and distinctive call, they are often seen perched motionless before suddenly darting into action. In Downtime, Nixon captures a quieter expression of these familiar birds, emphasising presence over movement, and inviting the viewer into a moment of calm observation.

Part of Kirsty Nixon’s ongoing exploration of Aotearoa’s native birdlife and landscapes, Downtime reflects her signature interplay of lush vegetation, coastal light, and atmospheric depth. Presented as part of Little River Gallery's exhibition Birds of a Feather, the work celebrates the delicate balance between stillness and vitality within the natural world.

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.