Alexandra woman Camille Alabaster is a potter, a painter and a mixed media creator, she is a full time artist.

Where do you live in Central Otago?

“I live in Alexandra. My family first arrived in Central Otago in the 1850s at St Bathans. Future settlers became my great-great-great grandparents, farming in the Maniototo thus establishing this region as my spiritual home. 

How did you get started as an artist?

“I have always been a creative and have taken part in many workshops, courses and programmes to hone my skills in several genres. I can’t imagine a life without creativity. Surely that would be called death?

“I have been a member of the American Creative Visionary Programme in 2022 and 2023, then won a place in the Cold Wax Academy this year. Both programmes have developed my technical skills as well as encouraging my unique artistic voice, especially in my abstract painting.

“My studio at the back of our property looks out to Leaning Rock which has been an inspiration to me as she constantly changes and points upwards towards the future as I also aspire for my art.”

One of Camille’s works ‘Red Songbird - red braid’. 

How have you ended up living and working here?

“Despite having been born and brought up in Dunedin and living in many parts of New Zealand as an adult, Central Otago called me back home. I love nine months of the annual climate here but have also been fortunate to be able to spend many years in the French summer.”

What's your favourite spot in Central?

“My favourite spot in Central Otago is the Lower Manorburn Dam. It is so peaceful there and the water is usually still and has beautiful reflections in any season. I have shot some great photos there. I have a dog and an e-bike, which both take me exploring through this beautiful region and out of my studio.”

Ceramic art and pottery homewares are fired in Camille’s kiln.

What else are you involved in within the community?

“When I'm not in my studio, I keep busy with my three grandsons and their activities. I am a member of several art related groups. I also meet with a group of creative Christian women most fortnights. I even play golf when I'm able to.”

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

“The biggest challenge for Central Otago is balance. Environmental and economic forces vie against each other. We need a backpacking seasonal labour force. I am not sure that we need "high end" travellers who demand top hotels and artificial experiences.

“I would like to see our tourism focus on our environment and its conservation. We need more affordable housing and could take lessons from Europe where housing is vibrant and multi-level, even in the small towns, leaving productive land to continue to contribute economically.

A painting titled ‘Alexandra Bridge- castle in the Otago ice kingdom’.

“We could promote our region as an arts and wine destination, similar to the Nelson area. However, I have lost count of the number of arts related groups here who compete for funds and members. Until they . . . become more inclusive, they will continue to be scattered in their focus and unable to form a singular direction to market themselves.”

How can people find out more about your art? 

My studio is at 30 Killarney Street in Alexandra. When I'm working in the studio, I put up my flag outside and visitors are welcome. Or txt me on 0212 454 737 to arrange a viewing. 

“My group, Artists Quarter, will be exhibiting at Central Stories Art Gallery and Museum from November 5 until December 5. I’ll be showing much of my current work for the first time and will be present often between 10am and 4pm. Text first to check.

“We will have paintings, ceramics, Christmas decor, fabric creations, traditional Māori weaving and demonstrations. It’s cash and carry so there is no need to wait until the last day of the exhibition to collect the treasures.

“I’m on Facebook as Camille Alabaster Gallery, Camille Alabaster Photography, Instagram @camille_alabaster_art or www.camillealabaster.net.”

How did you manage through the pandemic and what are you doing differently post Covid-19?

“The pandemic was great . . . it gave me uninterrupted time in my studio. It was easy to enter a "flow" state and creativity flowed. I already had enough material, a kiln and a wheel and plenty of painting supplies to last me through the lockdown. This time was valuable, like a residency with all the comforts of home. 

“I managed to create an inventory of pottery and paintings, which I'm still managing to sustain. There's nothing worse than having people come to see my work and having very little on the walls nor shelves of my studio.”

What Lies Beneath - abstracted tales by Camille.  

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

“I'm really excited about the future direction of my art, especially showcasing my 2023 work for the first time at Central Stories in November. It has been a huge undertaking to produce the work and now to put the final details into the exhibition.

“In December I'll be taking a rest and recharging ready for whatever 2024 brings. There are a few new ideas in the pipeline.”

PHOTOS: Supplied