"Sun after Rain, Haast" - the Winner of the People's Choice Award

Sun After Rain, Haast
watercolour by Bernadette Parsons

Bernadette says: "Its the same for all of us, that constant search for an exciting idea that will make a unique and interesting painting which make us fulfilled and, with any luck, others too. So much pressure.

Being in the right place at the right time when the sun followed directly after heavy west coast rain, what we saw for just a brief moment was just so, so exciting. Trees are my absolute favourite subject especially our New Zealand beech forests. The challenge is showing light without ever using masking fluid. The joy of finding one tiny area of New Zealand changing so drastically with light inspires me to keep painting not only huge landscapes but also the humble things around us.

Thank you Watercolour New Zealand for hosting another wonderful exhibition for all of us."

Judges Comment: It is easy to overwork large areas of foliage, but this artist has achieved stunning results mixing colours on wet paper.