Joanne Craig is a New Zealand artist living in Ōtepoti, Dunedin. I live on a lifestyle block overlooking Blueskin Bay and surrounded by the beauty of nature and birdlife.

As many of us are, I am inspired by nature and its capacity to uplift. We are a part of the natural world, not apart from it. In my work I celebrate the beauty of nature through portraits of birds and people.

At a deeper level I explore themes of connection and belonging. I often draw on Māori design traditions in my work, not only for their powerful symbolism and alignment with my themes, but also as a way of reconnecting with and honouring my cultural heritage.

With a Masters degree in biology and a graduate diploma in visual arts, my approach to my art is informed by both these disciplines being both detailed and intuitive.

I work in acrylic paints and enjoy using iridescent and interference paints to add extra magic to my work.

I have exhibited my work in various group exhibitions and a couple of solo shows. I hope that my work uplifts and inspires people to reaffirm their appreciation of the beauty in our world and the values of connection and belonging that sustain us.