Gailene studied oil painting in her early years, then turned to watercolours in later years and is now a member of several art groups, where she has attended selected workshops. Gailene also spent many years sailing the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf with her husband John, consequently her memories of their yachting days and their more recent overseas travel has a huge influence on her work.

Her recent artworks are mostly watercolours, contemporary acrylics and mixed media/collage works involving textures and glazes, all created in a lively, energetic style, featuring clean, clear, vibrant colours, always striving to capture a sense of movement and atmosphere.

Gailene has been exhibiting and selling her artwork since 2004, and it is currently included in various galleries, as well as in private collections in New Zealand and overseas.