Having your first art exhibition is exciting.
And, when it is a joint exhibition with your professional artist father, it is even more exciting.
But words do not describe how Alice Toomer felt after out-selling her father, John Toomer, in their combined show at the Art Station.
"It was pretty amazing. It was my first exhibition and I sold all of them, except three, on the opening night," she said on Thursday.
The year 10 Columba College pupil started painting seriously only three years ago, after her work appeared in the Arts section of the Otago Daily Times.
"I really enjoy the painting side of it and seeing what the finished product looks like. I also like the reaction people have to my paintings," Alice said.
Her 14 works in the exhibition feature disposable coffee cups, dress patterns and bags of lollies.
"It's probably a bit more modern and funky than Dad's work."
Alice was not sure what she wanted as a career when she left school.
"I don't know. Maybe an artist or a teacher, Maybe even an art teacher."
But she had definite plans for her $4700 windfall, after paying tax.
"I'm going to spend the money on clothes," she said, with a smile.
The only person prouder than Alice, was her father, Mosgiel artist and Otago Art Society life member John Toomer.
"She's certainly knocked me off my pedestal. I feel extremely proud of her. There's no doubt, as an artist, that she's got the X-factor," Mr Toomer said.
