Drawing must be the initial impetus of any work of art, and there cannot be a painting without it. If the drawing is bad or inadequate it is the artist's own fault.

Neil has understood this and the result before you today is testimony to his ability.

Landscape painting is a fairly recent development in the time-frame of ‘art' and these paintings on display show that the artist has a sound grip and understanding of the subject. As a painter born in the south, the evidence is before us in these paintings.

The time of day, the temperature and the season, coupled with wonderful lighting qualities, are evidence of the sincerity with which Neil has developed these subjects on display today.

At no point in New Zealand are we more than 300km from the sea, yet it is incredible in this day and age that one can be completely alone on beaches such as ours with only the sea breeze for company.

Neil realized that the true joy of an artist lies in his ability to paint it as he wishes it to be. Now that Neil has 25 years of painting experience behind him, he fully appreciates that the light of the sun fills the world with colour. It is easy to forget just how simple the colour schemes of nature can be. Neil has not forgotten, just look into any one of his paintings. He believes that a good painting is not just a complex collection of elements but a living, breathing creation in its own right.

Just as a musician must practice to delight his audience, so must the artist – plenty of practice is necessary. Neil has succeeded in this aspect of his chosen field.

Landscape painting in the true sense is now an acceptable form of art; enjoy the success that Neil now enjoys by spending some time with his latest creations that he has left for us to view.