Artwork gifted to former prime minister Helen Clark

SPECIAL GIFT: Helen Clark with an artwork created by Waikanae artist Molly Marshall.

A Waikanae artist has gifted one of her artwork's to former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark.

Molly Marshall, who uses the artist name Kahikatea, painted Eve's Return a few years ago as part of her study at The Learning Connexion.

She said she gifts her major works to others after receiving a spiritual sign regarding who the recipient should be.

In this case it was Helen Clark, who she felt "epitomised all that Eve's Return represents".

The work depicted "the journey of the woman and how far we have come, Eve from Genesis through to Revelation, now restored and resurrected returning as a bride of the world".

She said Ms Clark had devoted her life to helping others "so it is very fitting that she be the recipient of this painting".

Molly contacted Ms Clark who said it would be impractical for her to receive the painting as she was not in New Zealand much.

Delighted have a response, Molly messaged her again and said she would like to gift her the artwork as well as hand deliver it to her in New York once she had saved for the trip.

"Helen replied encouragingly letting me know that New York was an expensive trip and to keep in touch with my progress."

Trip fundraising efforts got underway and Molly was "amazed at how much support I received from friends, family and the wider community".

Molly flew to New York but because Ms Clark's future as the United Nations development programme admininstor was uncertain [she was in the running for the UN Secretary General role], it was decided it would be more practical to give her a framed print of Eve's Return first.

On September 26 last year Molly met with Ms Clark at her office on the 21th floor of the United Nations Plaza Building.

Ms Clark was delighted with the print and will contact Molly in due course about the original when her future plans are certain.

Molly said the whole experience had been amazing.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved in supporting me on the three year journey to making this dream come true."