About Me
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I began my artistic journey in Sydney, Australia, where I graduated with a Visual Arts Degree from the National Art School.
Drawing and painting have always been at the heart of my life.
Together with my late husband, Henk, I travelled extensively, living and working in some of the world's most beautiful places, including Fiji, the Cook Islands, the Greek island of Skopelos, and for twelve unforgettable years in the enchanting medieval village of St Cirq Lapopie in southwest France, where I owned and operated my own gallery.
Every place I've lived has left its mark on my work.
From endless sunflower fields and ancient stone villages to colourful bowls of capsicums and quiet moments shared between friends, I am drawn to the simple beauty and romance of everyday life.
Colour, pattern and storytelling inspire everything I paint, while fruit, flowers and people remain my favourite subjects.
My painting style is expressive yet natural, with brushstrokes that flow organically across the canvas. I delight in capturing the intricate details that bring a scene to life while allowing each painting to retain a sense of movement, warmth and spontaneity.
Every work is a creative exploration of a place, a memory or a moment that has touched me. Today, my paintings are represented in galleries and held in private collections throughout Australia, New Zealand, Europe and beyond.
Art has given me a lifetime of joy, adventure and connection, and I love sharing that passion with others through both my paintings and my workshops.
If you would like to learn more about my work or get in touch, I would be delighted to hear from you.
Upcoming Event
Watercolour Workshop with International Artist Nerida de Jong
Paint Among the Cherry Blossoms
Nerida de Jong embodies the spirit of creativity, curiosity and a lifelong passion for art.
A celebrated Australian artist who has painted, exhibited and taught throughout the world, Nerida works in oil, acrylic and watercolour, bringing decades of artistic mastery, warmth and encouragement to every workshop she leads.
Her paintings capture the beauty of her travels and life experiences in rich, vibrant colour. With graceful brushstrokes and an intuitive eye for light, Nerida brings to life the romance and simplicity of everyday scenes—from golden sunflower fields to peaceful village squares.
For fourteen unforgettable years, Nerida lived in the medieval French village of St Cirq Lapopie, perched high above the Lot River. Immersed in the warm French light, historic architecture and colourful local life, she developed the distinctive style that has become her signature—full of warmth, texture and storytelling.
Her remarkable career has taken her around the globe, living, painting and teaching in France, the Greek Island of Skopelos, where she lived for six years, Fiji and the Cook Islands. Today, her artwork is held in both private and public collections internationally.
Nerida's work celebrates the simple joy of life, the poetry of colour and the beauty found in everyday moments.
Your Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity to spend a day learning from a truly gifted artist whose wealth of experience, generous teaching style and infectious enthusiasm inspire artists of every level.
Join us for an intimate one-day watercolour workshop, limited to just 10 participants, set amongst the breathtaking beauty of our cherry orchard in full spring blossom.
Whether you're an experienced painter or simply looking to develop your skills, this promises to be a memorable day of creativity, learning and inspiration.
Workshop Details
Date: Saturday 26th September, 2026
Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm
Cost: $260 per person (lunch included)
Venue: Outdoors in our beautiful cherry orchard (weather permitting) at Lawry Fields Cherries, Spring Creek, Marlborough (NZ)
Lunch: A delicious lunch is included, coffee/tea and drinks
Please bring:
- Watercolour paints/palette
- Brushes
- Watercolour paper
- Painting diary or journal
- Water container and any favourite painting accessories
Please dress appropriately for the weather, as we will be painting outdoors if conditions allow. Some materials can be supplied on request.
Bookings
To reserve your place, please contact:
Hiedi Lawry
Places are strictly limited to just 10 participants, so early booking is essential.
Bookings close 15th August, 2026.
Come and enjoy a truly unique day of art, inspiration, wonderful company and the unforgettable beauty of the cherry blossoms in bloom.
