Maniototo’s Chloë Rosser is a painter, a print maker and a card maker.

What is special about where you live?

“I live in Wedderburn on my partner’s family farm. We are surrounded by great beauty - Mt Ida and the Hawkdun Range look over our house, and from the highest points on the farm we can see all the way down the Maniototo to the Styx and beyond.

“We have recently moved to this property and I have plans to convert one of the old mud brick cottages into a studio. In the meantime I am working in my sanctuary in the house.”

How did you get started as an artist?

“I have always been drawing, painting and creating…ever since I could hold a paintbrush I’ve been painting. I’ve had breaks from it but it’s always been in the background. Moving to the Maniototo is what fueled my rediscovery of art. I feel so inspired just living here.”

How have you ended up living and working here?

“I’m originally from England and I moved to NZ in 2018 on a one-way ticket to learn more about farming practices here. The second I stepped off the plane I knew I couldn’t go back to England. I spent a bit of time in Southland and then East Otago before settling in here with my partner and now our one year old daughter.”

What’s your favourite spot in Central?

“One of my favourite things to do in the summer is walk to the creek on our farm and go for a swim. Truthfully though, anything involving the landscape and being out in it, ticks my boxes.”

What else are you involved in within the community?

“I have recently restarted the Maniototo Art Group. The Arts Centre in Ranfurly celebrates its 40th anniversary this month, and the Art Group is one of the longest standing groups. 

“There [is] a real need for creative people to be able to get together and learn from one another and inspire each other. We’re only just into our second month but it’s been a great success so far.

“Outside of art, I am really passionate about women and helping them to find their own power. I am a trained healing birth practitioner and help women to unravel and move on from the trauma they may have faced in their birth experiences. I am also just beginning to run women’s circles in my local area.” 

What do you see as the biggest challenge for Central?

“As a farming family I would say the biggest challenge for Central Otago is the weather and the changes we are seeing there.” 

How can people find out more about your art?

“I share my creations as well as my personal life on the farm on Instagram at @chloebethrosser. I also have a Facebook page dedicated to my painting and art group - Chloë Rosser Artist.

“I stock a small selection of cards and prints at Floral & Feast cafe in Ranfurly. And I am aiming to open a home studio as we sit very close to the rail trail.”

What does the future look like for you?

“My art work is going to develop slowly and organically over the next few years. I’m in the peak of my mothering period and so I just don’t always have the time I would like to commit to creating. 

“I have noticed that my style has changed through motherhood already so doubtless it will evolve. One thing’s for sure, you won’t stop me from making art.”

The Maniototo Arts Centre’s 40th Jubilee Day is today (March 18) from 10am - 3pm with Devonshire teas, demonstrations and displays. It’s a chance to look around the community facility and enjoy food, music and performances.