Patsy Fletcher

Patsy Fletcher was born in Scotland and arrived in Nelson in the mid 1990s. Having joined the Stoke Baptist Church congregation shortly after her arrival, she was asked to do a mural that reflected some aspect of Christianity. As a practising artist, she had completed a number of public murals before leaving Scotland.

Fletcher works predominantly in oil, taking the vibrant colours offered by the bright Nelson light and exotic range of flowers growing throughout the region as her primary source of inspiration. She is known for her colourful, impressionist-style paintings of still life arrangements inspired by the Flemish Vanitas tradition.

She says “My paintings are a panacea. A chance to indulge the senses and celebrate what is good in our world and dwell on that. [...] Flowers frequently depicted in the Vanitas as symbols of transience, are executed here in fully saturated colour, demonstrating Joie de Vivre, and are a counterpoint to the oppressive black. Surrounding yourself in colour and life is a tonic for the epidemic of depression and heaviness that has become harder as globally nations endure war and suffering.”

Source: Patsy Fletcher | Exhibitions Gallery

Her work has been exhibited throughout the country, including in Nelson, New Plymouth, Wellington and Whanganui.

See also:

• Patsy Fletcher, Instagram