NZ Commission - avalanche peak

I went on quite a ‘mythical adventure’ gathering all the reference material and elements that were given to me as 'possible inclusions’ for this commissioned painting. It was graciously requested as a special surprise for my friend’s husband. It was still a professional project and we treated it that way, a detailed brief was sent to me, with an understanding that I’d ‘do what I was led to do in regards to the composition. I have never had such a long list of inclusions to consider before: trees, rocks, mountain, classical music, geologist’s boots or estwing hammer, specific mythical stories and scence fiction novels, a love of cats, cycling and mountain climbing, along with several favourite authors and the NZ Kea (alpine parrot) - I had my (quite tricky but fun) work cut out for me.

80 x 80cm ‘Avalanche Peak’ mixed media on canvas

Curiously though . . . once I had images of most of the inclusions . . . the composition came to me relatively easily. It’s got almost an ‘art journal - mixed media’ kind of feel to it, with illustrated elements in all kinds of sizes… I LOVE it when you don’t have to be realistic. ​

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“In ancient times cats times cats were worshipped as gods;
​they have not forgotten this.”  - Terry Pratchett

"old moon in the new moon's arms"

I really loved adding in all the details, the Kea sitting there greeting the adventurer as he begins his trek.
Both the giver and receiver of this artwork were readying to do a big walk up Avalance Peak, in the South Island of New Zealand.

It is really an honour and a joy to be asked to create a painting of such personal meaning as this. It was a wonderful feeling to finish it and have it be very happily received and hanging proudly in the new owner’s home.


Walking the creative path with you,
Denise x

Commission a Special Artwork by Denise