We have had the full spectrum of weather over the last couple of weeks. The beginning of the Queenstown Art Show felt as warm as… well, the breath of a dragon. A very large dragon. So nice too, to be in an area we don’t usually spend time in, (we’re normally ‘camp where there’s nobody’ people now), but nice for a change.
Of course, when we were in our 20’s it was the go-to place for a road trip. it has changed significantly.! We stayed in Frankton at the Driftaway, (fantastic service and facilities) and we thoroughly enjoyed catching the Water Taxi into Queenstown for a meal just before the weather packed up.
Nice to have a meal out in Queenstown
Then, as we headed home via Naseby in the caravan, we arrived to howling gales and sleet.
I even heard there was a tornado in Canterbury.
Yep, spring is definitely springing!
Despite its unpredictable nature, I really do love this time of year. There is something wonderful about watching everything grow so enthusiastically—the trees, the flowers, the weeds (especially the weeds!), all making the most of the longer days and warmer moments. There is that lovely promise of summer ahead.
I do love Spring!
Whether summer actually decides to arrive is another matter. Last year it rather forgot to show up properly, but I am filled with optimism that this year might be different. Hope springs eternal… especially in a gardener.
The Queenstown Art Show itself was a wonderful experience. One of the things I love most about art shows is the conversations. Yes, there is the excitement of seeing work find new homes, but there is also the unexpected joy of meeting people and sharing stories.
All set up at the show
I met a woman who became completely besotted with one of my dragons, and it was such a delight to see that connection happen. There was also a wonderful group of young people who introduced me to some new ideas and perspectives. As I get to know more of the artists exhibiting at these shows, I find there are so many great conversations to be had—about art, ideas, materials, and life in general.
During a demonstration I even got started on a new piece! Which, as always got loads of questions about the materials.
Some of my crazy birds, spiders and floofs also headed off to new homes. I never quite get tired of the feeling that these little characters, who have spent so much time with me in the studio, are going out into the world to bring someone else joy.
Got something made during a demonstration
The dragons, however, were less impressed with their travel arrangements.
I got the distinct feeling they were rather disappointed that being carefully packed into boxes meant they didn't get to see the mountains properly. Their boxes did feel a little warm during the journey, but I think that was probably just the sun.
Probably.
The dragons wanted to see the mountains
We arrived home safely with the help of my wonderful art assistant, Al, who came along for the adventure. He is handy with a drill, general lugging, and deserves a special mention for his spectacular caravan maneuvering skills through the busy Queenstown traffic. (A task requiring patience, bravery, and possibly a small amount of magic.)
Everything is now unpacked and put away, and I am already preparing for the next adventure: my Featured Artist week at the Otago Art Society gallery.
Meanwhile, the older papier mâché dragons have been having their own excitement. After years of quietly resting in storage, they have been invited for a sleepover at Rose's house for her annual Halloween Dragon's Lair.
The older Dragons were very excited for a sleepover
Every year Rose transforms her home into an incredible Halloween display, and it has become a real neighbourhood feature. When I heard this year's theme was dragons, my old papier mâché dragons were absolutely beside themselves.
A whole night dedicated to terrifying young children?
They could hardly contain their excitement.
On their way for a whole night of terrifying children
For now, I am catching up on admin, preparing for the next art adventure, and enjoying the fact that the weather has settled enough that the garden is calling again.
There is always something growing, creating, or plotting around here.
Sometimes I suspect the dragons aren't the only ones.