MANY people would attest that Christine Hamilton has lived a remarkable life. Born and raised in Versailles, France, she later lived in Paris for a long time, where she studied art and met her future husband.

They moved to the Loire Valley where Christine became a guide in a chateaux there; talking history, architecture and culture to hundreds of tourists.

“Fascinating times!” Christine said.

Moving again after a few years, they came to Australia.

Her amazing experiences continued.

But what a change!

It was farm life, sheep, drenching, shearing and riding horses!

After the serious business of farming and raising her daughter, Christine was able to immerse herself in painting again, with encouragement from her husband.

Luckily, unbeknown to her, he had kept boxes and boxes of art materials.

Working and painting here in the Nambucca Valley, she has been able to regularly exhibit at the Stringer Gallery and to her credit, hold several solo shows.

Christine will be presenting an exhibition of Australian native birds throughout the month of February.

Whilst in lockdown, she took to the task of practising drawing. Concentrating solely on birds, she researched books on the subject, such as the Reader’s Digest Complete Book of Australian Birds.

Observing so many wonderful avian visitors in her garden was also an inspiration.

“I think I have developed a passion for these magnificent birds,” Christine said.

“I enjoy painting immensely and love a new challenge.

“I wonder what it will be next.”

No doubt it will be something out of the ordinary.

The Stringer Gallery is located in the Nambucca Community and Arts Centre in Ridge Street.

‘Like a Bird on the Wire’ is on exhibition from Wednesday 2 February to Saturday 26 February.

Gallery Hours: Monday to Friday 10am – 3pm and Saturday 9.30 – 12 noon.