Born in NZ in the mid ‘50’s my creative and artistic interests took many forms,  but I did not begin formal art study until I attended  Whitecliffe College of Art and Design in Auckland, as a mature student with a young family.

Following my time at Art School, n the mid 199's I  established an award winning  Gallery in Waikato. This was not only a venue for my own painting and drawing, also  lead to opportunities judging, mentoring, tutoring and public speaking on arts related subjects.  One of the highlights being Presenter for a  Regional Television Arts Segment, which was an enjoyable if unexpected addition to my career path . 

In the new Millenium, seeking a less intense work/life balance I made the decision to redirect my focus to my personal arts practise which resulted in a prolonged period of offshore travel. These years included artist exchanges, residencies and exhibition opportunities in the UK Germany, Italy, USA and New Zealand 

While based in the UK I secured the role of Artist in Residence at the leading Midlands Kettering Buccleuch Academy. Not only was I able to work with art students of all ages and skills, but the role expanded to include large scale educational visual projects and the opportunity of involvement in the  English Heritage and Cultural sector.  I continued to produce my own work throughout this busy period and exhibited in Italy, the UK and NZ. It was an extremely rewarding role that would be a fitting end to the last decade of my working career .

 In 2018 my husband and I returned New Zealand and we settled in the rural South Canterbury Waimate. It here we built a dedicated art space "Beacontree Studio" it has proved to be an inspirational workspace in which to continue my creative journey .

My current focus is a series of 2D/flat needle felted animals and delivering Workshops on the subject ..

For Workshop Details please email me on

studio@lynhewitsonartist.nz