Jo Midgley

 

ABOVE: “Robin with Lichen” 120mmx120mm, oil painting

A Life Inspired by Nature

Jo Midgley has always been creative and drawn to drawing from a very young age. “It wasn’t until my early twenties that I picked up a paintbrush and discovered a whole new world of creative expression. I am mainly self-taught, having developed my skills through experimentation, persistence, and a genuine love for the process of painting.

“I live on a 500-acre farm, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. My surroundings are my greatest source of inspiration, and I never tire of the incredible detail, colour, light, and character found in nature. Native birds, flora, and fauna are my favourite subjects, and I love bringing these elements to life on canvas.”

Jo is particularly inspired by Claude Monet and the way he captures the transforming effects of light on a natural scene. She also admires the work of Ray Harris Ching, whose approach to depicting wildlife resonates with her own love of the natural world.

“For me, painting is about more than the finished artwork. I love every part of the process, from mixing colours and applying paint to the canvas, to stepping back, assessing my work, and deciding what comes next. I enjoy experimenting with texture and building layers, allowing a painting to develop its own personality. I also value the friendships I have made with other artists and the opportunity to share our experiences, ideas, and passion for creativity.”

Approach to Painting

Oil paint is her favourite medium. There is something about its natural pigments, richness, and depth that gives it a soul of its own. “I love the versatility of oils and the way they allow me to build texture, explore colour, and create a sense of life within a painting.

My process is fairly consistent. I begin with an underpainting across the entire canvas, then work out my composition before moving on to the background. Once the background is dry, I begin developing the finer details in the foreground. It is a method that works for me, giving me a foundation on which to build the finished piece.

My trusty Mabef easel is an essential part of my studio setup. Big, sturdy, and robust, it is always ready to support whatever creative challenge I decide to take on!

At present, I am working on the largest painting I have ever attempted, measuring 150 x 90 cm. It features native birds amongst mānuka and is highly textured, with hundreds of dollars already invested in paint and mediums. It has been an exciting undertaking, and I am keen to see how it ultimately comes together. I intend for this painting to be the centrepiece of my collection for next year’s Christchurch Art Show.”

Artistic Journey and Achievements

Over the past five years, Jo has been proud to see her work accepted into three well-known New Zealand galleries, with paintings sold through each of them. These milestones have encouraged her to keep developing her skills and pushing herself creatively.

“The Christchurch Art Show has also become an important part of my artistic journey. Each time I exhibit, I can see an improvement in my work from the previous year, which is a wonderful reminder of how much can be achieved through dedication and practice.

“One of my proudest moments to date was winning the People’s Choice Award at the Tasman National Art Awards. It was incredibly rewarding to know that people connected with my work and took the time to vote for it. Around ten years ago, I also placed third in the People’s Choice category at the Peter’s Doig National Art Awards when the event was held in Blenheim.

“Knowing that my paintings have found homes beyond New Zealand is another special part of this journey. My work has travelled to Australia, England, Europe, America, and Canada, allowing my art to reach people and places far beyond my rural surroundings.”

Her work is currently represented by:

• Raukura Gallery, Picton
• Art Box Gallery, Christchurch
• Zea You Gallery, Taupō

Although she lives and works remotely and is not currently connected with any art organisations, she continues to build her artistic practice independently, finding her own opportunities and learning along the way.

Looking Ahead

“I would love to exhibit at Art in the Park in Auckland next year. Being part of this show is a goal I am particularly excited about, and I see it as another opportunity to share my work with a wider audience.

I hope to continue exhibiting, selling my paintings, and challenging myself with new subjects, techniques, and larger works. Most importantly, I want to keep improving and creating art that brings joy to others.”

Like many artists, Jo sometimes struggles with self-doubt. “Learning to believe in myself and my abilities more wholeheartedly is an ongoing challenge. I know that confidence is something I need to nurture alongside my artistic skills.

“If there is one lesson painting has taught me, it is never to give up on a piece too soon. Sometimes a painting simply needs time to breathe. Stepping away and returning with fresh eyes can make all the difference. I also believe in valuing your work and never underselling yourself.”

Life Beyond the Canvas

Living on a farm means that nature is not just something she paints; it is part of her everyday life. “I enjoy riding my horse a couple of times a week and getting out for walks, taking time to appreciate the surroundings that continually inspire me.”

Music is another constant companion in her creative world. “I generally enjoy music from the 1980s, although at the moment I am going through a Robert Plant phase and listening to plenty of his solo career hits while I paint. Whether I am immersed in a painting, enjoying the outdoors, or listening to music in the studio, I am happiest when I have the freedom to create.”

My Advice to Other Artists

“Throw everything into it and see how far you can go. Believe in yourself, keep learning, take chances, and don’t be afraid to push beyond what feels comfortable. Not every painting will be easy, and not every step will go to plan, but every experience teaches you something. Above all, never lose the joy that made you pick up a paintbrush in the first place. For me, that joy comes from creating, connecting with nature, and sharing something of the world I love with others through my art.”