The Gallery
Introduction
The intention of The Bone Studio and Gallery is to provide an outlet for the retail and commissioning of quality New Zealand carvings.
Ian at the Jade and Bone case. |
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This is the first gallery in New Zealand to specialize in carving in all its forms, styles and media. It is certainly the only one being run by a producing craftsperson -- which gives me the advantage of knowing exactly where contributing carvers are "coming from." I am not only able to understand and cater to their needs but someone who has a trained and critical eye able to discern quality artwork from lesser offerings.
Ian with a Megalithic Head! |
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Art and craft lovers from around the world pass through Whitianga year 'round and The Bone Studio and Gallery is fast becoming one of "the" places to visit. With a diverse range of work, we are able to cater to most tastes -- and provide our craftspeople with a wide cross-section of buyers.
Having made our purchasers happy, they return home with an appreciation of what we have to offer. When they or their friends decide they want more, they can make a "virtual visit," view new and old works of art, read up on the artists, and choose or commission the artwork they desire.
We work on connecting each piece of artwork with its new owner via an appropriate delivery service. Going by some of the pieces on display, you can tell that can be a bit of a challenge -- but one we look forward to!
Materials
The materials that are carved are as diverse as the styles they are carved into -- and they vary greatly in character even within the same piece. I have attempted to give a brief summary of their qualities and how they are worked to aid in making your choice, especially if commissioning work. Nothing, however, beats touching and seeing them in person -- so pay us a visit!
Styles
The style that seems to pervade a large proportion of work coming out of New Zealand is, of course, that of the Maori. Volumes have 
been written about it and certainly one of the reasons for that is that Maori carving is considered the most advanced, intricate and spiritual work produced by an indigenous people anywhere in the world. It is, therefore, our privilege to live around it and be influenced by it.
Hey, you're on the Internet -- I suggest you check it out!
Other influences present in the gallery recently have come from the Celts, Easter Island, Native Americans, Holden & Harley-Davidson, Eskimos, nature in general ... as well as some of the further recesses of kiwi craftspeoples' minds!!! I mean, who would think of carving a guy surfing with dolphins out of a giant punga log (mamaku, tree fern). Remember, our motto is
"Carving Unlimited."
There is, of course, a great deal of completely original work -- especially in bone and wood sculpture. The Gallery is fast becoming a tribute to the imaginations, inspirations, creativity and skills of New Zealand carvers.