Apologies again for the lack of blogging of late - work is driving me crazy!

Am I the only one that's constantly surprised by the amount of artistic talent in our little neck of the woods?

I know there are artists throughout the country, but it does seem there are an awful lot (and I mean 'awful' in the nicest sense!) just around the Helensville area.

There are obviously the particularly well-known ones - like painters Fiona Whyte, Rosemary Parcell, Sarah McBeath, and sculptors Diane McGarvey and Geoff Thompson. But there are literally dozens more working quietly away, which is very encouraging.

Perhaps they're more noticeable now because things are getting more organised. There's the Art Kaipara group, the Art Stop Cafe which has a gallery and organises all sorts of artistic endeavours, and various annual events like the Dimensions exhibition at Waitoki and Sculpture in the Garden at Nestlebrae.

It's not just the visual arts either.

Just look at the huge growth in the performing arts over the last couple of years, thanks mainly to the formation of PACKS (Performing Arts Kaipara South), driven largely by Kaipara College teacher Nick Roberts.

This group of like-minded people brings us an annual variety showcase, Christmas in the 'Ville, plus regular performances at places like the Grand Hotel and the Riverview Restaurant and other one-off events.

A large focus for PACKS (can't say the acronym does much for me - 'Focus on ART' would be more memorable; think about it!) is in encouraging the area's young talent, and it's doing a great job too. Geez, we've even had out own NZ Idol - well done Emilie Harwood for going so far in that competition.

So come on everyone - dig out your paint set or dust off the piano accordian and have a go too.