"The greatest gift you can give someone is the ability to see true beauty.” - J.G. Dykstra Grace has always loved to paint, and with the dedication and commitment which is rare in a young child, she was able to achieve her first sales when she was just 12 years of age. Over the years Grace has led a diverse and interesting life, and although she spent a number of years busy pursuing a career as a social worker, and studying philosophy at the University of Otago, her desire to paint saw Grace continue to put in many extra hours doing what she loved. During this time her paintings were highly acclaimed and she not only enjoyed success as evidenced by sales, but also became the recipient of many national and international art awards.

Out of a desire to share her skills and encourage others to embrace painting, Grace started teaching in 1991, and now 20 years on, can say that she has helped thousands of adults and children, both in New Zealand and internationally to learn the skills that she so actively believes in. Among the art schools she has established are "Passion for Painting”, "Art Metro” in Christchurch, and now "The Art School” in Dunedin.

Along with her teaching, Grace paints as she always teaches, skillfully, and with great attention to light. She paints with meticulous observation, and clever application in oils, and each painting seeks to celebrate our iconic life, to refresh and stir memories of our past in New Zealand.