Stone Artist
Scott Taylor
I am naturally drawn to symmetry and simplicity, and my goal is to create an effortless and uncomplicated aesthetic in my work without falling into the realm of the ordinary. Inspired by New Zealand’s ingenuity and engineering spirit, along with a childhood fascination with science fiction, I aim to spark imagination and encourage people to view the world through a curious lens.
I grew up in Christchurch, but I have always had a nomadic spirit, which means I haven’t stayed rooted in one place for too long—until now. I spent most of my life travelling around New Zealand, living out of my van while mountaineering and rock climbing. When I met Karma, we travelled overseas together for a few years too before covid brought us back home.
I have always been drawn to the West Coast with its wild rivers, deep rainforests, and incredible geology. This land has been home to my family for three generations before me and some of my best childhood memories are from the West Coast, of early morning surfs with my cousins and adventures through the bush with my family. This place is very special to me, and finally putting down roots here feels like coming home.
I discovered my passion for carving in my 20s while living in Golden Bay and I was fortunate to learn the craft from the legendary carver Chris Bone. I primarily worked with bone and wood at that time, but when I wanted to explore stone as a medium, I enrolled in the Hard Stone and Jade Carving course at Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth, where I earned a Diploma in Arts and Design.
I embrace simplicity; the fewer commitments and possessions I have, the greater my sense of freedom. Working from my home studio allows me to tap into my creativity while recharging in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds me.
I work out of a small studio space that overlooks the Tasman Sea, with stunning native bush spilling over the steep limestone cliffs that cradle our little piece of New Zealand paradise. I maintain a simple, somewhat chaotic yet harmonious workspace where my creativity has room to breathe and ideas can flourish and express themselves. I draw endless inspiration from my little artistic cave, surrounded by birdsong, the powerful crashing waves, and the energy of fierce storms that confront us directly. The atmosphere is nothing short of epic yet profoundly chill.
The West Coast is a special geological region with a rich mining history, including resources like coal, gold, and pounamu or greenstone, New Zealand’s vernacular for nephrite jade. I use pounamu (nephrite jade, serpentine) for some of my designs but prefer other stones, like pakohe (argillite) and the highly underrated but beautiful whatuaho (greywacke), for my contemporary work. I deeply respect the cultural and natural significance of all materials I work with.
Carved in stone
Jewellery
Showcasing the artistry of hand-carved wearable pieces, each a testament to the beauty of the stone. We embrace pounamu (nephrite jade, serpentine), but also celebrate a diverse selection of other stones, like pakohe (argillite) and whatuaho (greywacke), each inspiring personal connection and expression.
Carved in stone
Jewellery
Showcasing the artistry of hand-carved wearable pieces, each a testament to the beauty of the stone. We embrace pounamu (nephrite jade, serpentine), but also celebrate a diverse selection of other stones, like pakohe (argillite) and whatuaho (greywacke), each inspiring personal connection and expression.
Carved in stone
Sculptural work
Contemporary and expressive, each of our handcrafted sculptures embodies the unique beauty of stone, inspiring a deep connection to nature. Stone serves as the primary medium but is often paired with mixed media elements like wood, metal, or natural fibres.
Carved in stone
Sculptural work
Contemporary and expressive, each of our handcrafted sculptures embodies the unique beauty of stone, inspiring a deep connection to nature. Stone serves as the primary medium but is often paired with mixed media elements like wood, metal, or natural fibres.