D Spencer Photography + Fine Art

11/02/2026

Kaikōura has an endless supply of inspiration, from the wildlife that lives here to the landscape itself. It has shaped me as an artist, and this year I will be exploring this connection to our environment through my exhibition Eye Level. Opening 10th April at the Mayfair Theatre.

Alongside the art I also wanted to explore what our environment means to the Kaikōura community. And that is where you come in! During March the Eye Level Photography Competition will be open for submissions. Winners and runners up will be printed and displayed during the exhibition in April. They will be chosen by an expert panel of professional photographers; Simon Pierce, Annika Dahlberg and Fiona Wardle.

There are five categories - something for everyone - including phone and junior. Photographs can be taken anytime during 2025 and 2026. With a special category to celebrate Seaweek.

For more information check out the link below:
https://dspencerart.com/pages/photo-comp

08/01/2026

✨NEW T SHIRT DESIGN✨
🐋Pre Order CLOSED🐋

Limited Edition block print style design inspired by the underwater life that makes Kaikoura such a unique place. Price: $50

Quality design screen printed in New Zealand onto mid weight, 180 GSM,100% combed cotton AS colour T-Shirts. Available in three shirt styles and three colours!

21/12/2025

A beautiful collection of artwork from local artists at the Whitianga Art Group

Looking forward to seeing everyone’s work! If you are close to Whitianga during January pop in and say hi! I have a handful of small pieces on display too 😄

A MUST SEE - 20 artists under one roof
2026 Summer Exhibition - Opening 6pm Saturday 3rd January

21/10/2025

Photography can be a useful tool for many different types of science. It can be used for mapping areas, recording changes in environment, calculating sizes and IDing individuals as well as heaps of other applications. One of my favourites is that photography provides an opportunity for the community to get involved with citizen science projects.

Over the whale season we have been collecting data for Oma Tafuā an NGO here in Niue, but we’ve also been uploading these to HappyWhale. Its been a pretty incredible season and we had some really interesting results!

08/10/2025

🐋🌊

Our brand-new Project Jonah t-shirts are here!

You loved our 2025 winter hoodie design so much that we’ve brought it back for summer! These new tees carry the same striking artwork, celebrating the sense of community and connection that defines Project Jonah.

Created by Kaikōura artist and Marine Mammal Medic Dani Spencer, the artwork brings together whales, dolphins, and people – a reminder that we’re all part of the same story, and that every action we take can help protect the ocean and its incredible wildlife.

Printed locally on organic cotton, they’re soft, durable, and eco-friendly. Perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re on the beach, at a stranding, or just showing your support for marine mammals.

Available now on our website: www.projectjonah.org.nz/product/pj-tshirts/

17/08/2025

I've only bought my small travel watercolours and sketch book with me to Niue so I've been mainly focusing on my photography on the island. The crystal clear waters of Niue have been absolutely out of this world. With a range of subjects from small nudibranchs to the graceful humpbacks, and beautiful coastline, there's no shortage of inspiration.

Niue has it's own sculpture garden and gallery, as well as numerous markets and show days exhibiting the stunning works of local artists. The handmade crafts on the island are truly beautiful, my suitcase home may be quite a bit heavier.

I'm excited to bring all the ideas I'm collecting to life once I'm back in NZ. For now I'm soaking up island life. 🌺🪸

13/08/2025

A little snippet from Niue, you'll want to listen to those video on loud 🥰

06/05/2025

End of the season and my last two markets!

This Saturday 10th at Lyttelton Craft and Treasure Market. The day before Mother’s Day so if you want a lovely gift (or to treat yourself) I’ll have prints and original paintings available! 😄

Then the following Saturday 17th I will be at the Kaikoura School yard market. This will likely be my last market so a good chance to snap up any of those paintings you’ve had an eye on all season 😝

12/03/2025

Really happy to be able to announce my art exhibition at The Mayfair Theatre has been extended until 8th April!

So don't worry if you haven't seen it yet you've still got time! We've had the kids from some of the local school up with us during Seaweek, thanks to the Encounter Foundation, to create their own mini masterpieces so be sure to check that out 😀

Big thank you to all the crew at The Mayfair Theatre and Puhi Peaks for the opportunity to keep this up a little longer. Best way to check opening times is to head to the Mayfair website to see when films are playing! The exhibition is free entry and a great way to learn about our local wildlife and conservation organisations.

P.S. Sorry if you already bought something you'll have to wait a little longer for it to come off the wall! If you have bought something and need it before the end date just let me know 😄