Islands in the Sky by Paul Herbert

Level Four lockdown created frustrating restrictions for Waihi Beach artist Paul Herbert – ranging from a ban on surfing to an inability to purchase canvases from shuttered shops. On the up side, these limitations gave Paul the time to creatively construct an alternative reality and to adapt and rejuvenate his painting style.

Islands in the Sky has allowed him to showcase his images, styles and content in a new light.

In his bubble he created a series of seven paintings each exploring the theme of a sky island connected to an island in the sea.

He hopes these paintings help lift people’s spirits in a difficult year.