Harakeke II is a luminous original from Kirsty Nixon’s Flora & Fauna collection—an artwork that celebrates the elegant structure and meditative rhythm of one of Aotearoa’s most iconic native plants: Harakeke, or New Zealand flax.

Long, sculptural leaves of Harakeke arc across the canvas in rich, layered greens, their clean lines catching the light in subtle shifts. Painted with clarity and flow, these native blades stretch upward and outward. Through the spaces between, pockets of brilliant blue sky and sunlit grass flicker gently, suggesting the calm of a perfect summer’s day.

For Māori, Harakeke is deeply significant—not only as a symbol of family and connection, but also as a versatile plant used traditionally in weaving, medicine, and ceremony. Kirsty, too, finds a quiet reverence in its form. “I love the simplicity of the Harakeke on its own,” she shares. “Harakeke leaves are so lovely to paint, I get lost in time truly. It’s almost meditative.”

This sense of presence—of being both grounded and absorbed in nature—radiates through the work. Harakeke II invites viewers to slow down and take in the strength, softness, and balance found in its flowing composition.

Hand-painted and signed by Kirsty Nixon, the artwork is created with professional-grade, pigment-rich acrylics on stretched cotton canvas and sealed with a protective, archival varnish for lasting vibrancy.

Harakeke II also pairs strikingly with Harakeke I (Where’s Wally?)—together, these two originals form a bold diptych of texture, calm, and native beauty. Whether displayed alone or as a set, this piece brings a sense of structure, serenity, and a fresh breath of the outdoors into any interior. A refined and soulful tribute to New Zealand’s native flora.

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.