Tikoki Tūī is an original painting by Kirsty Nixon, featuring two Tūī perched amongst lush Tītoki foliage and sweeping Nīkau palm fronds. Their iridescent plumage reveals rich shades of blue and green, beautifully contrasted by their distinctive white throat feathers. Tall, sculptural palm fronds fan across the composition, while delicate Tītoki leaves weave through the foreground. Soft, pale blue skies bring light and openness to the scene, balancing the rich greens and warm golden tones of the native foliage.

The composition reflects Kirsty’s enduring fascination with Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna. Through carefully layered botanical forms and intricate detail, she creates a sense of depth and movement, inviting viewers into an intimate moment within the natural world. The two Tūī, perched at different heights and gazing in opposite directions, bring a quiet sense of companionship and balance to the painting.

The Tūī is one of New Zealand’s most recognisable native birds, distinguished by its iridescent blue-green plumage, delicate white throat tufts and remarkable vocal abilities. Known for its complex melodies and ability to mimic a wide range of sounds, the Tūī plays an important role in native ecosystems as a pollinator of flowering plants. The Tītoki, a native New Zealand tree recognised for its glossy leaves and vibrant red seed capsules, provides an important food source for native birdlife.

Rich in colour, texture and natural detail, Tikoki Tūī celebrates the beauty and character of Aotearoa’s native birds and the environments they inhabit. The painting captures a peaceful moment of connection within the bush, reflecting the harmony between native flora and fauna.

This original painting is part of Art by the Sea’s exhibition, Ngā Manu Motuhake – Special Birds.

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.