The Congewai-based artist boards the P&O cruise ship Pacific Dawn today as the artist-in-residence, with 100 pieces of her work to be auctioned on the cruise.

The collection includes portraiture and still life coffee cups and wine glasses, inspired by her former career in the wine industry, and well-suited to the food and wine-themed cruise.

Incidentally, it was through Kristy’s employment in the Pokolbin vineyards that led to the P&O deal.

Two long-term customers at David Hook Wines, where she worked for about four years, saw her display and used their connections to get it on the ship.

British Australian Art, a company that auctions art and memorabilia on cruise ships and on land, bought Kristy’s pieces to auction on the cruise.

More than 2000 passengers will embark on the cruise that leaves Brisbane today, and Kristy hopes the exposure she receives will help her tap into the international and commercial markets.

Kristy has taken a keen interest in art since childhood, and spent many a lunchtime at Lambton High School in the art classrooms.

Turning 30 and a bad accident in the space of a year were the catalysts for Kristy’s decision to concentrate on her art full-time.

“It was the turning point – I realised I need to be doing what I want with my life, and that was art,” she said.

Kristy’s displays will continue at three Pokolbin venues – David Hook Wines, Café Enzo and Ironbark Hill Vineyard function centre.