Meet Justine: the artist behind the canvas
Welcome to my world of colour and emotion. This page shares a glimpse into my journey, my inspirations, and the heart behind every brushstroke at CRAYFORD JUSTINE ARTIST. I hope you'll find a piece of yourself within my story.
My journey through art and life
Born in France in the heart of the analog-to-digital transition, my life has been a rich tapestry woven from voyages and personal experiences. I left Europe on the Eve of 2010 with two eager eyes, one bag pack and zero intention of coming back. After spending a couple of years living between Australia and Fiji Islands, I landed in Aotearoa New Zealand. I instantly fell in love with this beautiful country, and ultimately met my amazing husband. After graduating a Performing Arts Degree in 2016, I decided to focus on founding a family.
I fully dedicated these past ten years raising our two wonderful children, and now that they are a bit older, I am getting reacquainted with my artistic journey.
This global odyssey of self-discoveries, connections, breathtaking natural wonders, and challenges profoundly inspires my art. What I bring to the canvas is intrinsically linked to my feelings, often serving as a form of therapy. It's through this personal expression that I hope to evoke genuine emotions in others who view my work.
The inspiration behind the brush
My artistic inspiration flows from everything around me – from the noticeable colours, lines, textures and shapes of the space that surrounds me , to a deeper introspection on humanity, history, nature, science, the universe, and what makes our world so beautiful and unique. I embrace the good, the bad, and everything in between. My paintings allow me to express my feelings, and I often use it as escapism when I need a break from normal life.
Leaving a legacy: my artistic purpose
Driven by sustainability, my practice centres on the innovative reuse of salvaged and organic mediums. My art breathes new life into discarded materials to minimize environmental impact, and working with unconventional materials challenges my creativity and shapes my process. Whether it's through repurposed pieces of arts and craft and discarded canvases found at the tip shop, I like incorporating unique mediums such as homemade dried flowers, and recycled items, completed with the use of acrylic paint, watercolours and composition leaves. Each piece is a reflection of this profound connection to life's myriad experiences.
"Justine's art speaks volumes. Each piece tells a story, beautifully blending colour and emotion. Her unique approach truly stands out."
A satisfied art collector