Studio Update: Framing the Moving On Collection + Embracing Autumn’s Gentle Rhythm in Southland

Beverly Claridge
April 1, 2026
Creating Art Around Life

Hello friends,

It’s the 1st of April and Easter weekend is upon us (with the added bonus of time off for Easter Monday and Southland Anniversary Day, as well). Meanwhile, autumn is quietly settling over Southland. The days are growing shorter, yet our landscape still holds onto that surprising brilliant green that delights us all. It’s a season of slowing down, savouring the last golden light, and preparing our homes and hearts for the more reflective rhythm of winter ahead.

Steady and Hopeful Studio work

Meanwhile, I’ve been finding joy in small, steady steps in the studio. Last month I nearly completed making the frames for the Moving On collection. Most of the oil on board pieces are heading into fresh 6.5 cm wide white moulding that gives them such a clean, optimistic lift. The crisp white frames let the joyful marks and flowing colours breathe beautifully.

However, the cool and windy Southland autumn weather has delayed the final touch-ups on the verandah. Framing is very weather-dependent for me, so the Moving On pieces are patiently waiting for a calmer day before I can finish them. Additionally, I also have two larger oil-on-stretched-canvas iterations that will receive a simple oak floating frame later on in April or May. Click here to see Moving On in all of its unframed glory.

It feels good to see my overall abstract collection evolving with its own gentle progression — from the bright pink-framed Pink Chatter, and now the white-framed Moving On pieces.

Framing Moving On Collection

What delights me is the way the white frame surrounding the Moving On works further enhances that sense of stepping forward with optimism and possibility, even as the season gently slows us down. It helps accentuate their hopeful resolve — exactly the energy I want to bring into homes as we prepare for quieter winter evenings around the wood-burner.

Artist Life

Today, I’m heading with my laptop into town to The Batch, a local coffee shop, simply to get out of the studio and into real life. Following this, I’ll stop by Invernui Art Gallery, followed by picking up a few studio supplies.

In the meantime, I’m making quiet progress on a website rebuild so friends around the world can more easily see and purchase new work when it’s ready.

These slower autumn days remind me how important it is to value time with family and friends, find joy in simple moments, and create homes that nurture us as the seasons change. The white frames on Moving On feel like a beautiful reflection of that — light, fresh, and full of quiet hope. I’m looking forward to sharing more soon.

Next time

Next week I’ll dive into how these newly framed pieces sing against some beautiful 2026 colour palettes from Dulux NZ and beyond. For now, I’m simply grateful for the steady progress and the chance to keep moving forward, one joyful brushstroke at a time.

I’d love to hear from you — what small studio win or autumn ritual are you enjoying right now? If you have a favourite wall that might be whispering for a refresh, feel free to send me a photo. I’d be happy to help you imagine how a Moving On piece could feel hung there.

With joy, gratitude, and Easter blessings lingering,

Beverly