Hi, I'm Kirstin

I live in the beautiful Taranaki region of New Zealand and love creating playful, vibrant works inspired by some of my favourite travel memories. My hope is that my artwork brings a little of that holiday feeling into your home, reminding you of your own favourite places and the moments that made life feel just a little lighter.

Meet the Artist

My Story

Art has always been a bit of a happy place for me. Ever since I was young, I’ve loved painting as a way to switch off, express myself, and create something meaningful. In my twenties, I spent a lot of time travelling around Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia and South America, while building a career in marketing. Although painting became more of a background hobby for a while, I always had some kind of creative project on the go.

After becoming a mum, I found myself naturally drawn back to painting. Those precious pockets of "me time" became more than just a chance to pick up a paintbrush. They filled my cup, quietened the mental juggle of motherhood, and gave my creativity room to breathe again.

My Process

I enjoy playing with colour, shape, texture, and layering to create pieces that feel warm, vibrant, and full of emotion. Many of my recent paintings have been inspired by places I've travelled and landscapes I've connected with, but I also love finding inspiration in everyday moments, nature, and the way certain colours and spaces can make you feel.

My process is usually quite intuitive, and each painting tends to evolve naturally as I work. I often begin with a memory, a feeling, or simply a colour palette, then build the story through layers, movement, and texture. Some of my favourite pieces have come from letting go of trying to make everything perfect and allowing the painting to unfold in its own way.

I hope you enjoy my artwork as much as I enjoy creating it. I'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback, so please feel free to get in touch at Kirstin.Shields@gmail.com.

Kirstin x