Artist Bio – July 2016

This is a short introduction of the Artist and a summary of the journey that has led him to create these carvings. 

Where it began...

I was born in Hamilton and have lived and worked in almost every region throughout Aotearoa.

I started bone-carving around 28 years ago at the age of 18. Initially based in Whangarei as a Resident Artist at the Northland Craft Trust, known as the ‘Quarry’, I was a full-time carver for around seven years.

A large influence in my early carving years, while based at the Northland Craft Trust, was Master carver and mentor Te Warihi Wallace Hetaraka. His influence and advice has had a deep impact on my work. 

Each carving has a meaning...

I am a practicing Buddhist and it is my wish is to create carvings that communicate great meaning and blesses peoples minds. As such I have received special permissions from several Kaumātua to carve certain traditional Māori symbols, and to also combine some of these with various contemporary influences. 

The most important aspect of what I do is based on the spiritual nature of this mahi (work). Each Taonga tells a story and is intended to bless the hearts and minds of all who wear them and lay their eyes upon them, and come into their presence. As such, each carving is transformed into a Taonga through qualified mantra and formal blessing rituals. The following quote from the very esteemed Tohunga and Kaumātua Rev. Maurice Grey affirms this...

The essence of my work has been recognised by a number of senior Kaumātua throughout New Zealand. Having received various spiritual initiations over the years, I am fortunate to be qualified in ways that are not common to many carvers currently practicing this craft.  

Full Circle and Adventures...

When I was a young, poor, and single artist, I sought new adventures. As a result, I put down the tools and decided to gain some worldly credibility and experiences.

After this break from carving, I have heeded a calling to return to my original roots of carving.  The work you are now viewing is the result of a new era of design and represents a maturing of my craft. 

I currently sell most of my Taonga though the Te Papa National Museum, Auckland Museum, word of mouth, and through my online store.

I sincerely hope you enjoy the carvings I create and over time, come to fully understand all the various layers of meaning imbued within them. I wish you and your family the deepest peace and happiness.

Arohanui

Andrew Doughty