Head Over Heels is a dynamic original from Kirsty Nixon’s Chorus of Colour collection, celebrating the playful spirit of Aotearoa’s iconic Tūī. Set against a 70s-inspired patterned backdrop of soft beige, apricot, cream, and grey, the muted palette evokes warmth and nostalgia while highlighting the bold black-and-white forms of two Tūī.

The birds balance along a diagonal Harakeke branch stretching from the bottom center-left to the top right, the lower bird gazing down and outward while the higher bird looks up and to the left. Their opposing directions create lively tension, enhanced by fluorescent pink splashes that inject movement, fun, and visual excitement.

In Māori culture, Tūī are celebrated for their intelligence, distinctive calls, and role as communicators. Here, they embody joy, curiosity, and playful connection, inviting viewers to engage with their spirited presence.

Hand-painted and signed by Kirsty Nixon, Head Over Heels is created using high-quality, pigment-based acrylics on stretched cotton canvas, sealed with a protective, fade-resistant archival varnish, and elegantly presented in a refined wooden tray frame.

Perfect for those seeking a contemporary yet distinctly New Zealand artwork, Head Over Heels brings vibrant energy, character, and whimsical charm to any 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.