Ornithologist honoured for work with godwits

October 4th, 2013
[by Shirley Frater]

Pauline Samways has been awarded a special Conservation Champion award in recognition of her work in studying Godwits and the Motueka Sandspit over many years.

Pauline, supported by her husband David who became the photographer, has become nationally known for her dedication to the Godwit project.

Of the four years that the Motueka Arts Council has been involved with 'Welcoming the Godwits' event, Pauline has been so knowledgeable and a great partner in the projects.

The award was presented by Rudy Tetteroo, of the Department of Conservation, at the Sprig & Fern Tavern on Wednesday as part of the exhibition being staged there, focused on the Godwits and birds of the Motueka estuaries.

Pauline with husband David

The exhibition, sponsored by the Motueka Arts Council, is of art by seven invited local artists.

Other works being exhibited are mounted at Steph Wills dentist, BNZ Motueka and Riwaka Hair, and will remain there until 29th October.

The mixture of mediums and sizes makes an interesting exhibition. Some of the works are on canvas and the photographer allows the buyers to choose their own framing.

All the works show the perseverance to study or photograph the variety of birds in their natural environment, which is no mean feat.

With most of the works for sale and reasonable priced, it was pleasing to see that five pieces sold on opening night.

This is a great way to partner the environment and art in Motueka.

The artists are pictured below, from left: Sandie Boyd, oil painter; Joyce Griffin, oil painter; Kim Falconer, photographer; Craig Martin, photographer; Liz Hofmann, pastels; and David Samways, photographer. Absent was Yvonne Hammond, fabrics.

Comment by Malcolm Garrett:
[Posted 5 October 2013]

A great couple of people, the Samways! Not only working so hard for the birds of the estuary and shore, but contributing mightily to the work of SeniorNet in Motueka. May all their projects fly!

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