Art and Crafts

Art and Craft

Painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, jewellers and more … live and create throughout the region. Meeting the artist who painted the picture or the winemaker who crafted the vintage is one of Nelson’s unique experiences.

World of Wearable Art and Collectible Cars Museum - The WOW phenomenon is now an internationally celebrated event. Amazing wearable works of art are on display in Nelson at the World of Wearable Art™ and Classic Cars Museum. The combination of incredible garments with classic cars in one museum is a unique experience.

Artisan markets

It’s worth getting up early and visiting the Nelson Saturday market. Here locals stock up on fresh produce and collectors are spoilt for choice: from wooden platters and local olive oil to colourful ceramics. Motueka hosts a relaxed Sunday market, and further afield Takaka has a Saturday market.

Coastal creativity

Follow the Coastal Highway from Nelson, through Richmond to Motueka for a smorgasbord of cuisine and creativity. From art glass, dried flowers, candles, sculpture, painting, ceramics, vineyards, cafes and so much more, this is an essential adventure!

Local artists

Here are a list of artists in Tasman and Mapua showcasing their work online in Nelson. To view their work and details, click on your choice below

Marion Towns - Painter - Chalk Pastel Media

Many of you will know Marion Towns' work from Waiheke Island. A recent convert to the Nelson climate and lifestyle, this has been a blessing for lovers of her art. We enjoy seeing the different inspirations our scenery has reflected in the work on this world reknown artist.

Betty Salter - Painter

You can see from this beautiful example Betty's versatility has delighted her clients for years. Commissions involving animal portraiture, people portraiture, local scenery and fantasy art have been sold both locally and throughout the world.

Jo Heatherbell / Sculpture in Oamaru stone

Jo is completely self taught. Around four years ago she was given a couple of blocks of Oamaru stone, and has not been able to leave it alone since. Over the years Jo has spent a great deal of time in our National Parks and has developed a real passion and respect for the birds and bush. Her challenge is to recreate the peace and serenity she sees around her.

Mike Perry - Koru Gallery - Potter

Residing in his self built mud house Mike Perry lives and breaths his passion for pottery. Long established, he is well known for his vibrant tableware. Mike is a collector of classic vehicles motor scooters etc and lives in a world of retro style where he feels most comfortable. Recently his work has reflected this, suddenly scooters, mowers, concrete mixers, cars and caravans have appeared in his work - little social comentries of New Zealand viewed through his eyes.