On Your Marks is a captivating original painting from Kirsty Nixon’s Flora & Fauna collection – a series that celebrates the intimate connection between Aotearoa’s native birds and its untamed landscapes. Full of quiet energy and layered symbolism, this piece captures the electric stillness just before take-off – the breath held before a bold new beginning.

At the centre of the circular composition, a solitary Tūī perches on a bare branch. Its posture is alert, wings tucked, and body finely balanced – ready, but not yet in motion. The Tūī’s plumage shimmers in rich tones of inky blue, deep green, and violet, contrasted by its iconic white throat tuft, or poi. Surrounding it, the textured fronds and white blossoms of flowering cabbage trees frame the scene, with powder-blue skies breaking gently through – evoking the soft, clear light of a calm New Zealand day.

There’s a sense of grace and tension in this suspended moment. On Your Marks speaks to courage, transformation, and the quiet vulnerability that comes with stepping into the unknown.

Celebrated for its bold nature, intelligence, and melodic call, the Tūī is a beloved symbol in Aotearoa. In Māori mythology, it is considered a spiritual messenger – representing life purpose, confidence, and inner harmony. Nixon captures this essence with reverence, inviting the viewer to reflect not only on the bird, but on their own moments of pause and possibility.

Contemplative yet uplifting, On Your Marks brings the wild beauty of the natural world indoors – offering a space to reconnect, breathe, and honour the bravery it takes to begin.

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.