Twitter III captures the Pīwakawaka (Fantail) in a moment of suspended movement, poised amongst the vibrant green leaves of Kawakawa. Positioned in the upper left of the composition, the bird's body is gently twisted, suggesting a fleeting pause between bursts of activity. This subtle sense of motion brings an immediacy to the work, as though the Pīwakawaka may take flight again at any moment, disappearing into the surrounding foliage.

Characteristic of Kirsty Nixon’s paintings, layers of native vegetation frame and partially conceal the subject, encouraging the viewer to look deeper into the landscape. Pockets of dusty blue sky emerge through the canopy, creating contrast and drawing light into the composition, while the lush greenery evokes the richness of Aotearoa’s native bush.

The Pīwakawaka is one of New Zealand’s most familiar and well-loved birds, renowned for its agility, curiosity, and near-constant movement. Its playful nature and tendency to flit effortlessly between branches have made it a favourite subject in New Zealand art and storytelling. In Twitter III, Nixon captures both the delicacy and vitality of this charismatic native bird, revealing the beauty found within a passing moment.

One of three paintings in Kirsty Nixon’s Twitter series, Twitter III is presented as part of Little River Gallery's exhibition Birds of a Feather. Through her vibrant palette and keen observation of the natural world, Nixon celebrates the enduring connection between New Zealanders and the birdlife that inhabits our landscapes.

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.