This painting draws inspiration from Tantalus Estate in the Onetangi Valley of Waiheke Island, where vineyards stretch across gentle slopes surrounded by native wetlands, olive groves, and restored forest. The estate carries a sense of quiet discovery, reflected in its name, which comes from nineteenth century decanter cases designed to protect treasured spirits while keeping them visible. That idea of something precious waiting to be uncovered shaped the spirit of this work, translating the landscape and atmosphere of the vineyard into an abstract memory of place.
The composition reflects the character of Tantalus Syrah, whose layered notes of rose petal, dried herbs, baking spice, and black pepper guided the palette and movement within the painting. Deep reds and dusty rose tones echo the richness of the wine, while cooler blues trace the curves of the valley and the pathways through the vineyard. Like the wine itself, the piece balances structure and energy, bringing together the mineral soils of Onetangi Valley, the warmth of the Waiheke sun, and the slow unfolding complexity of a glass of Syrah shared among the vines.
Original paintings are created with archival materials and are available for private collection, with larger commissioned interpretations available upon request.
9 x 12 inches
Acrylic on birchwood panel
Varnished for protection and depth
Presented in a walnut canvas float frame
This painting draws inspiration from Tantalus Estate in the Onetangi Valley of Waiheke Island, where vineyards stretch across gentle slopes surrounded by native wetlands, olive groves, and restored forest. The estate carries a sense of quiet discovery, reflected in its name, which comes from nineteenth century decanter cases designed to protect treasured spirits while keeping them visible. That idea of something precious waiting to be uncovered shaped the spirit of this work, translating the landscape and atmosphere of the vineyard into an abstract memory of place.
The composition reflects the character of Tantalus Syrah, whose layered notes of rose petal, dried herbs, baking spice, and black pepper guided the palette and movement within the painting. Deep reds and dusty rose tones echo the richness of the wine, while cooler blues trace the curves of the valley and the pathways through the vineyard. Like the wine itself, the piece balances structure and energy, bringing together the mineral soils of Onetangi Valley, the warmth of the Waiheke sun, and the slow unfolding complexity of a glass of Syrah shared among the vines.
Original paintings are created with archival materials and are available for private collection, with larger commissioned interpretations available upon request.
9 x 12 inches
Acrylic on birchwood panel
Varnished for protection and depth
Presented in a walnut canvas float frame