Kia ora, I’m Eris Newson - a multidisciplinary artist and educator, based in Manawatū and born in Taranaki.

I’ve been creating and teaching art for over 20 years, and I still feel excited every time I pick up a brush or welcome someone into a class. My own practice is rooted in painting - especially oils and acrylics on canvas - but I also work with watercolour, drawing, clay, and photography. I don’t align myself with one medium; I choose the tools that best serve the idea or emotion I’m exploring. Lately, I’ve been loving the immediacy and playfulness of blind contour drawing, and watercolour has become a joyful part of both my art and teaching.

I would describe my artwork as being grounded in observation and reflection. I’m drawn to the environments and symbols that surround me - coastal and alpine landscapes, native birds, human and animal forms. I love capturing colour and essence as I see it. Whether working in paint, sculpture, or photography I seek to behold memory and moment. Themes of life and death, motherhood, wellbeing, transience, and irony often surface in my work - sometimes quietly, sometimes with boldness. Each piece is a conversation between what I see, what I feel, and what I hope to share.

As a teacher, I believe in creative exploration. I’ll show you techniques, encourage you to try new things, and then give you space to experiment. If you have something you’re passionate about, I’ll help you make the most of it. My goal is to support others on their creative journeys, whether they’re just starting out or rediscovering their love of making.

I exhibit regularly, with recent work shown at the Feilding Art Centre, and my pieces are held in private collections around the world. You can view some of my work here on my website, and I also share art projects, class highlights, and creative goodness on social media - feel free to have a look!

These days, you’ll often find me at the Feilding Art Centre, where I teach art classes and serve as Manager for the Feilding and District Art Society. It’s a space where creativity, connection, and community come together - and I’m proud to be part of it.