THE ARTIST

Connection

For me, art has a dual role. While some believe artists must challenge the status quo, I think it’s equally important to gently remind people of their own capabilities and the beauty around them.

Many have told me that my work inspires them to feel powerful and at peace, and that’s incredibly rewarding. 

My goal is to share messages that resonate within and encourage people to engage with the world positively.

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THE ARTIST

Connection

For me, art has a dual role. While some believe artists must challenge the status quo, I think it’s equally important to gently remind people of their own capabilities and the beauty around them.

Many have told me that my work inspires them to feel powerful and at peace, and that’s incredibly rewarding. 

My goal is to share messages that resonate within and encourage people to engage with the world positively.

View Gallery
COMMISSION A PIECE →
Jo in action painting a horse

Rural Life & Family

Rural New Zealand is where I grew up. My father was a shearer and shepherd and my mother was usually out working alongside him. Due to seasonal work, we lived in 79 homes by the time I was 16. Aside from being exposed to such a rich colour palette of the New Zealand countryside and becoming particularly attracted to that beauty, I became adaptable and creative by necessity. 

As I never had a great deal of time in any one location, I made a point of only dealing in genuine connection. I recognised how fleeting relationships and even the very breath of life itself could be. I was quick to seek understanding of my environment and of the person in front of me. Small talk has never been my thing. To this very day, if you and I make the time to stand before each other then I will seek to learn who you really are. 

With my paintings it is the same. 

Most often I have something that I deem significant that I’m trying to understand or convey. If I’m going to make the investment of that kind of time and energy then I may as well be genuine about it. Being this way isn’t always easy, and I’m blessed I found a true gift of a man who is able to understand me. 

I met Simon at an agricultural show in NSW Australia while waiting in line for a hot drink. A brilliant man in his own right, I found in him a true comrade and supporter of my values, my intentions, and my work. 

Jo and Simon sitting at Stone House at Moore

Jo and Simon

Jo and Simon

Learning to Plough at Stonehouse, Moore, with Kain, Spencer & Joe.

Image of Jo behind 2 hourses ploughing ground
John Constable’s painting Salisbury Cathedral from the Bishop’s Grounds, circa 1825
Salisbury Cathedral from the Bishop’s Grounds, c. 1825 John Constable — The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain

Constable

It was during a visit back home to New Zealand in my early twenties that I came across a John Constable exhibition.

Standing before Salisbury Cathedral from the Bishop’s Grounds (1825), I found myself overwhelmed by emotion — weeping, shaking, and unable to feel the ground beneath my feet.

In that moment, I knew I wanted to become a painter.

Purpose

There was an extended period where I paused my brush work. Along the journey of those years of tumult, I met a horse called Phoenix – “Hoss”. A Sir Tristram mare, she had been a successful racer and ultimately abandoned, much as I had abandoned myself. In her, I met a better version of me, almost a mother. She was fiercely protective of me.

Initially Hoss was particularly violent around food, as she had been starved and was horribly afraid. That powerful creature learned to trust, and gave me the gift of an extraordinary bond that I can barely express and do justice. That bond reignited my desire to express, create and lift others with me. 

My philosophy centres on the idea of making a meaningful impact in small ways. I believe in the power of compassion and the privilege we have to touch lives through our work or even the look in our eyes. 

Art can reflect that beauty, reminding us of what is worthy of preservation—both in nature and within ourselves. 

It was Hoss who taught me that.

A photo of Jo S Stacey and her horse Phoenix - her inspiration

I primarily work in oil, pastel and charcoal.

Contact me if you would like something special.

Thank you so much for visiting, and learning a little about me.

Every Painting Begins With Connection

Inspiration comes from the world around me – the joyful dance of life, deep conversations, or even witnessing small acts of kindness.

Each moment can ignite that creative fire.

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Jo S Stacey Signature

FAQs

Yes — every piece is 100% original and hand-painted by Jo.

Jo primarily paints using oil and pastel on high-quality canvas or paper. Each piece is crafted with professional-grade materials to ensure lasting beauty and quality.

Absolutely! Jo welcomes commissions in both oil and pastel. Simply provide a high-quality reference photo (minimum 1.2MB) and share your ideas. Jo will bring your vision to life with a unique hand-painted piece.

Payments can be made securely via PayPal or Direct Bank Transfer. All transactions are encrypted to ensure your personal and payment information remain safe.

The Merchandise Collection includes art-inspired items designed by Jo — blending fine art with everyday style. Each product reflects her original artistic touch and attention to detail.

Yes — free shipping within Australia is included for all original artworks. International orders are shipped via DHL, and Jo will provide a custom quote based on destination, size, and weight.

For ready-made artworks and merchandise, orders are typically dispatched within 3–7 business days. Commissioned paintings require additional time depending on size and detail — Jo will confirm an estimated timeline when you place your order.

Yes, Jo ships worldwide. DHL Express is used specifically for original paintings. International shipping costs vary by location, size, and weight — please contact Jo for a personalized quote.

Yes — once the painting is complete, Jo will send you a photo for review. You may request minor adjustments if they’re possible before final payment and shipping.

Jo carefully packages every piece to ensure safe delivery. Over the past five years, Jo has shipped hundreds of artworks with a 100% safe delivery record using DHL — a top-tier, trusted international courier. All shipments are fully insured for the value paid, securely handled, and tracked with a DHL tracking number, including security-monitored handling by DHL and its partners.
However, in the rare case that your artwork arrives damaged, please contact Jo within 48 hours with photos, and she will assist you immediately.

You can reach Jo directly at info@paintandpony.com or through the Contact page for inquiries, commissions, or collaboration opportunities.