The Hills Are Alive is an original painting by Kirsty Nixon, featuring three delicate Tauhou (Silvereyes) nestled amongst lush Kawakawa leaves and flowering Cabbage Trees. Their soft olive-green and yellow plumage, distinctive white eye-rings and gentle expressions bring life and character to the composition. Beyond the layered native foliage, rolling golden hills stretch into the distance, dotted with pockets of deep green bush, while an expansive lavender-blue sky brings a beautiful sense of openness and calm.

The composition reflects Kirsty’s enduring fascination with Aotearoa’s native flora, fauna and diverse landscapes. By framing the scene with intricate botanical forms, she creates the feeling of looking through the foliage to discover the countryside beyond. The contrast between the richly detailed foreground and sweeping golden hills invites viewers to pause and appreciate the natural beauty of New Zealand’s rural landscape.

The Tauhou, commonly known as the Silvereye or Waxeye, is a small native bird recognised by its distinctive white eye-ring, olive-green plumage and cheerful, high-pitched song. Often seen moving in lively flocks amongst trees and flowering plants, these sociable birds feed on nectar, fruit and insects, playing an important role in pollination and the wider ecosystem. Their Māori name, Tauhou, meaning ‘stranger’ or ‘new arrival’, reflects their relatively recent natural arrival in Aotearoa during the 19th century.

Evoking the warmth and tranquillity of the New Zealand countryside, The Hills Are Alive captures a peaceful moment where the gentle chorus of birdsong seems to echo across the rolling landscape. Rich in colour, texture and natural detail, the painting celebrates the beauty of Aotearoa’s birdlife and the environments they inhabit.

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.