In my previous life I was a lawyer but am now painting full time. I also teach watercolour classes at WEA Invercargill. When possible, I paint en plein air and also have a studio at Invercargill and Riverton.

Like others interested in the outdoors, I feel very fortunate indeed to reside in the south of the South Island, New Zealand.

Looking back, my principal interest was my father, Ces Flaus, who was a very accomplished watercolour and oil painter. He also operated an Art Gallery in Queenstown. Art was a frequent topic for discussion at home.

I am essentially self taught but feel very fortunate to have been mentored by artists such as Randall Froude who, in particular, instilled in me the confidence to proceed along the watercolour path.

Over the years I have also been directly influenced by artists like: Andrew Wyeth, Jaime Wyeth, John Singer Sargent, Peter McIntyre, Edward Sago, Alvaro Castagnet and Joseph Zbukvic. These, and others, continue to provide me with enthusiasm, direction and guidance.

One thing all these artists have in common is their practice of painting en plein air. Almost all my paintings are either painted directly in front of the motif or are commenced from notes / sketches made en plein air.