The Central App will share the story of our region’s artists each month. If you know someone with creative talent to nominate contact: [email protected]

Cromwell’s Annie Gilchrist is a painter and a potter who has recently done cabinet art in Alexandra. 

Where do you live in Central Otago?

“I live in Cromwell, it truly is a special town with lakes only minutes away. Water activities

galore. I can pop down to the river and practise my fly fishing. In the winter the mountains

are a great playground for skiing and hiking. I am surrounded by beauty everywhere I go here.”

How did you get started as an artist and what inspires you to keep creating art?

“I started painting at highschool… I mostly lived in the art room (my happy place) [and]

ever since I have continued painting as a hobby.

“I considered a degree in fine arts but decided I might not make any money until I died. Instead I studied a Bachelor of Viticulture (grape cultivation) and Oenology (the study of wine and winemaking). 

“Now I mainly paint from photos that I like or commissions of people's dogs. Going on adventures and getting amazing photos keeps me motivated.”

Dogs are a frequent subject in Annie’s art

How have you ended up living and working in Central?

“I grew up in the small town of Otematata. My studies brought me to Cromwell when I scored a summer job working for Felton Road Wines. 

“There are many similarities between Cromwell and Otematata and it immediately felt like home. Sort of like a holiday too with the hot summer vibes.”

Where is your favourite spot to chill out in Central?

“My favourite spot would be heading to McNulty inlet with my inflatable duck and a few friends to swim and relax.

“Nowadays I can do that while I watch my partner paraglide above the lake doing acrobatics too. Such fun.”

What else are you involved in?

“I am the secretary of the Cromwell Pottery Club. It is a great place to meet other

inspirational creatives in the community. There is so much opportunity for fundraising and

putting back into the Cromwell community. 

An example of Annie’s pottery

“I also play Hockey in the winter months for the Cromwell Braves and am part of the Latin Soul Dance community that brings all sorts of people together and performs at events such as the Blossom Festival and The Arrowtown Autumn Festival.”

What do you see as the biggest challenge for Central Otago?

“Currently [it is] getting enough workers for all of the jobs available [while] keeping up to date with town infrastructure to meet the needs of our growing towns.”

How can people find out more about your art? 

“My instagram is @annie_painter_and_potter features my work. I can also do commissions… [just] send me a message.”

How did you manage through the Covid-19 pandemic?

“The pandemic gave me a chance to focus on doing more artworks as I could not do my usual job as a landscaper.”

What does the future look like for you and your artistic work?

“I am hoping to build up my portfolio and take on more commissions, hopefully more murals too. I plan to continue my pottery journey too so I can make some unique pieces with my own personal flair.”

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