Questions & Answers
This page answers some of the most common questions about my work, how it’s made, and what to expect when buying original artworks or fine art prints. If you’re curious about process, materials, or caring for your artwork, you’re in the right place.
About the artwork
What is coloured pencil art?
Coloured pencil art is created entirely by hand using artist-grade coloured pencils. Layers of colour are built up slowly, often over many hours, to achieve depth, texture, and fine detail. The process is quiet and meticulous, allowing for close attention to subtle shifts in tone and form.
What inspires your artworks?
My work is inspired by the natural world, particularly birds, animals, and flora. I’m drawn to quiet moments, small details, and the sense of stillness found in nature. Each piece is an invitation to slow down and look more closely.
Are your artworks hand-drawn or digital?
All artworks begin as original, hand-drawn coloured pencil drawings. No part of the artwork is digitally created. Digital tools (like scanning and editing) are only used later in the process to carefully reproduce finished artworks as fine art prints.
What type of pencils do you use?
I draw mostly with Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils. These are professional grade colour pencils made with high-quality acid-free pigments and unsurpassed lightfastness.
How long does one artwork take to create?
Each artwork takes hours to complete. For large pieces (sometimes 40+ hours), drawing time is spread over weeks. Coloured pencil is a slow medium, and I work gradually, building layers and detail to ensure the finished piece feels considered.
Working with me
Do you take commissions?
I occasionally accept commissions, depending on my availability and the nature of the project. I want to create an artwork that you'll love, and that I'm proud of, so these artworks are carefully considered.
If you have a particular idea in mind, you’re welcome to get in touch and we can discuss whether it’s a good fit.
Can I visit your studio?
My studio is a private home studio and isn’t open to the public for regular visits. From time to time, I may take part in open studio events, exhibitions, or markets where you can see my work in person. These opportunities are always shared through my website and mailing list.
Prints & originals
What’s the difference between an original artwork and a print?
An original artwork is the one-of-a-kind coloured pencil drawing created by hand. A fine art print is a high-quality reproduction made from that original artwork, allowing the image to be shared more widely while preserving the character and detail of the original.
What is a fine art (giclée) print?
A giclée print is a high-quality fine art print made using professional inkjet printing. My prints are produced using archival pigment inks on carefully selected fine art paper, chosen to accurately reproduce colour, detail, and texture.
How is a print produced from an original artwork?
Once an artwork is complete, it is professionally scanned to capture fine detail and true colour. From this scan, a digital file is created and refined through test printing. Colours are adjusted repeatedly until the final print closely matches the original artwork — a process that can take several hours.
What’s the difference between open and limited edition prints?
A limited edition print is produced in a fixed quantity. Each print is individually signed and numbered, and once the edition is complete, no further prints are made. Limited editions are often collected for their rarity.
An open edition print has no set limit and is not numbered. Open editions make the artwork more accessible while maintaining the same fine art printing standards.
Materials, origin & values
Where are your artworks made?
All original artworks and fine art prints are created in my home studio in Te Awamutu, New Zealand. Each piece begins as a hand-drawn artwork before being carefully reproduced as a print when applicable.
Are your artworks protected by copyright?
Yes. All artworks are protected by copyright law. Images may not be reproduced, copied, or re-printed without written permission. This applies to original artworks, fine art prints, cards, and any digital images of the work found online.
Framing & care
How should I frame the artwork?
Professional framing using acid-free materials and UV-protective glass is recommended to help preserve the artwork over time. Simple, timeless frames often suit the work best and allow the detail of the drawing to remain the focus.
A professional framer can advise on matting and spacing to ensure the artwork is properly supported and protected.
My prints are made to standard sizing (A4, A3, A2) and will fit into pre-made frames, however I do recommend professional framing for the best outcome.
How do I care for my artwork or print?
With proper care and framing, your artwork can be enjoyed for many years. Avoid hanging artwork in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure may affect the paper over time. Professional framing with UV-protective glass offers the best long-term protection.
When handling original artworks, keep them in their clear packaging and away from sunlight until framing. Handle all artworks gently and with clean hands.