Crafting beauty
I’m obsessed with nature—particularly the beauty, stillness, and tranquility that a garden provides. Capturing the essence of my garden in my art brings me so much joy.
Here’s a little bit about me:
~ I’m a lover of all things nature. You’ll often find me bushwalking with my family, pottering in the garden, cooking with homegrown produce, or placing little vases of freshly cut flowers around the house (only select flowers though—thanks to family hay fever!).
~ I’m a relaxed photographer who doesn’t need the flashiest gear or the largest garden to feel fulfilled. I grow, potter, nurture, and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors, cultivating flowers that I later transform into my art.
~ Aside from my Maria ~ Magdalene collection, all of my collections are grown, arranged, and photographed by me. The Maria ~ Magdalene collection was created using flowers grown in my friend Marla’s backyard, I still arranged and photographed this too of course! That’s where the name “Marla” (my art piece) comes from.
~ I’ve always felt drawn to nature photography. My first photo was of birds flying across a sunset (I still have it!). I used to eagerly wait for my rolls of film to be developed—oh, how times have changed!
~ What started as a hobby turned into a passion, and eventually into the business I run today. I’ve explored many genres of photography, but nature photography has always held a special place in my heart. That’s why I’ve chosen to specialise in fine art floral photography—with the unique twist of growing the flowers I photograph.
~ Every “lady” is a limited edition—only 10 prints per size, per piece. From the beginning, I’ve been intentional about creating boutique, unique, and meaningful pieces to cherish. My work brings a sense of calm and beauty to homes, boutique accommodations, and conference centres around the world. I ship worldwide (unframed prints outside of New Zealand).
~ All of my floral pieces are referred to as “ladies.” It’s how I’ve always spoken about them, and it just feels right. Each lady is named after an inspiring woman in my life, a meaningful time, or a personal journey. You’ll notice my collections follow this same naming tradition. This process keeps me deeply connected to my art and often to the people who are drawn to it as well. I love this connection—my art holds so much meaning, and I’m so grateful to share it with the world.
Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear from you!
Much love,
Johanna x
The Collections
Maria~Magdalene Collection 2021
The delicate blooms in this collection were lovingly nurtured by my friend Marla. It is named in honor of my grandmothers, Oma (Maria) and Yaya (Magdalene), whose timeless influence continues to guide me. At the heart of this collection is my award-winning piece, Marla, who holds a special place as both the queen of this collection and the beloved favorite among my art community.
Turn to Nature 2022
This collection holds a special place, as it was the first to bloom in my sun-kissed gardens in Hawke’s Bay. Every flower here was lovingly grown from seeds, seedlings, tubers, and bulbs. During the pandemic, tending to these plants became my refuge. It offered me a much-needed escape from the harsh reality of leaving my children each day to work on the frontline as a respiratory nurse. At the heart of this collection stands Gaia, the queen of these blooms, embodying the spirit of growth, strength, and renewal.
Shine Collection 2023
The Shine collection is the smallest of all my works, born from both growth and loss. After months of nurturing my garden, Hawke’s Bay was devastated by Cyclone Gabrielle, destroying most of the flowers I had been tending. Only a few resilient blooms remained, from which this collection emerged. Shine is a reflection of my personal journey through self-development, with an emphasis on staying true to one’s essence, no matter the challenges life presents. At the heart of this collection stands Restore, the queen of these blooms, symbolizing healing, renewal, and inner strength.
Simplicity Collection 2025
The Simplicity collection was born from flowers nurtured in my home garden in Hawke’s Bay. At times, I found myself struggling to find inspiration, which ultimately led me to embrace the essence of Simplicity. This collection is a celebration of shedding both external and internal expectations, allowing creativity to flow freely, and creating pieces that feel both effortless and deeply aligned with my vision. At the heart of this collection stands Magdalene, the queen of these blooms, embodying grace and purity.
Awards & features
Marla
Award-winning photograph – IRIS awards 2021
Features in NZ House & Garden Magazines.
Art Exhibition CAN 2025.
FAQs
What about quality?
From seed to printing to framing, every part of my process uses the highest quality materials. All of my art is printed locally, supporting small businesses and families across both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. The printing process includes the use of archival pigment inks on textured cotton rag, using Canon professional print technology.
Framing is available—please reach out for a wide variety of custom options, or choose from my standard frame selections: black, white, or timber. Framed art is only available for delivery within New Zealand due to the risk of breakage when shipping internationally.
When will I receive my purchased art?
My art is printed to order. Because I work with local small businesses and take care with every piece, please allow up to 4 weeks for delivery. This timeframe includes professional printing, signing by me, and framing (if selected).
I understand we’re used to fast deliveries these days—but some things are worth the wait. I won’t compromise the quality of my art for speed. You deserve only the best.
I’d like to use flowers from my garden—do you take commissions?
Yes, I absolutely accept commissions! I love creating bespoke pieces using flowers you’ve grown and cared for, or based on special flowers that hold meaning for you. I have limited availability for commissions, so please reach out if you’d like your own exclusive artwork arranged and photographed personally by me.
What type of framing do you offer?
I offer professional framing only. All framing is completed locally in Hawke’s Bay using high-quality glass that provides UV protection and anti-reflection features. Each piece is set back in the frame to create a beautifully clear, refined presentation.
Please note: I do not recommend placing any artwork in direct sunlight, as it can damage even the highest-quality prints. My art is best displayed in a protected space out of direct sunlight to ensure its longevity.
