Edge of the World Exhibition

"My paintings are grounded in a love for the outdoors and a deep respect for the wild places that inspired their creation. Through my work I aim to tell the stories of Aotearoa’s landscapes, flora and fauna, and the people who help protect them. Painting is both my way of inspiring others to explore and appreciate these places, and my means of giving back to the environments that have shaped my life.

Originally from Christchurch, I’m now based on the Coromandel Peninsula with my husband Tyrell and our two sons, Jonty and Felix. Together we gather ideas and reference material through everyday adventures, exploring coastlines, climbing trees, sea kayaking, snorkelling, and venturing further into the hills. Seeing the natural world through my children’s eyes has given my work a renewed sense of wonder, and these shared experiences have become an integral part of my creative process.

I paint with acrylics on canvas, using a technique that is more common to watercolour. Though I have no formal art training, I’ve been fortunate to have many inspiring and encouraging creatives around me from an early age. I work from my home studio nestled in the bush surrounded by the native forest and birdlife that often find their way into my paintings. It’s a peaceful, grounding space and a daily reminder of why I paint, and what I hope to help protect."

"For over 35 years, Daniel Wright has been dedicated to exploring the relationship between natural materials, the coastal environment, and finely honed craftsmanship. His artistic journey began with wood and bone carving, disciplines that taught him patience, precision, and the importance of working in harmony with each material’s natural character. He later extended his practice into crafting native timber surfboards, a pursuit that deepened his connection to the ocean and the lifestyle that surrounds it.

This long-standing affinity with the sea continues to shape his work today. Drawing inspiration from the fluid forms of ocean waves, the textures of coastal landscapes, and the graceful movements of marine life, his pieces often echo the rhythms and patterns found in nature.

Over time, copper became his signature medium. He is captivated by the metal’s organic quality—how it shifts, patinas, and evolves—and by its remarkable versatility. Copper allows him to capture both strength and softness, permanence and change. Through hand-forming, heating, and shaping, he creates works that feel alive, each piece carrying its own unique energy and character.

His copper sculptures and wall pieces are represented in more than 20 galleries throughout New Zealand, and he regularly ships work to clients and collectors overseas. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and his ability to bring natural forms to life, he has built a loyal following both locally and internationally.

Whether creating a sculptural interpretation of a rolling wave or an intricate study of sea life, Daniel continues to honour the elements that first inspired him. His work stands as a testament to decades of practice, a deep respect for natural materials, and an enduring connection to the ocean."