New Zealander Jacqui Woolley Kipfer has been living in and painting Bermuda for the past five years.

Tonight she will open a new show, as an Artist-in-the-Garden at Masterworks, which she feels represents a fantastical journey and a dedication to the artistic learning process.

She has chosen works in either acrylics on canvas or soft and hard pastels.

Ms Woolley Kipfer said she has a passion for colourbut other than that gives her artistic ideas free rein.

"I have no preference for subject whether it be landscape, figures, cartoons or abstracts," she said.

"My intention with every piece I create is to inject lots of colour and create a piece that evokes feelings of happiness, fun and interest in the eyes of the viewer."

Her entry into Bermuda's art scene has been a speedy one.

Three years ago, she was awarded third place in the Masterworks Art in the Park competition's adult section and also won the People's Choice Award.

Mrs. Kipfer has since had an exhibition in Masterworks' Artist-Up-Front Street series ? her first solo show ? in May 2004.

"I paint as often as I can with the Plein Air painters of Bermuda, which gives me many opportunities to visit unusual places on the Island to draw inspiration," she said.

"The helpful advice and encouragement afforded me by the wonderful people who participate in that group have helped me to develop my style and technique."

Along with those regular sessions, she has also attended the Bermuda Society of Arts Life Drawing classes in order to practice, learn and refine her skills.

"I fervently devour many art magazines and books on technique in my constant quest to improve," said the artist.

"I love creating pieces; so practising and refining my skills never seems like a chore but rather an adventure."

Her exhibition opens at the Masterworks Rose Garden Gallery, Botanical Gardens, today at 5.30 p.m.