Our Artists
We work with some of New Zealands best greenstone artists and pounamu carvers.
Akapita Scally
As a part of Rotorua’s carving industry for the past decade, Aka has had the privilege of working alongside some of the town’s finest pounamu artists. His designs are notable for their perfect lines and exemplary finishing, and he is particularly skilled at reflecting traditional forms whilst pushing contemporary boundaries. Akapita is from Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Rangitihi.
James Pirika
After finishing high school, James began his journey in the Mountain Jade studio, learning the foundations of his craft from Tamaora Walker. As an emerging artist finding his way in carving, James always finds it important to reflect on where he started, allowing him to stay humble while acknowledging Tamaora’s guidance throughout his journey. James is from Te Arawa, Ngāti Te Roro o Te Rangi.
Clarence Collier
Originally from Tairāwhiti (Gisborne), Clarence Collier brings a deep passion for creativity to his craft. Currently based in Petone, Wellington, he has been immersed in the arts for over 28 years, with the past eight dedicated to pounamu carving. Clarence is from Ngāti Porou and Te Ai Tanga a Māhaki.
Donna Summers
Donna studied at the prestigious Whitecliff College of Arts and Design, winning the Eden Arts Art School competition in her final year. Donna is half Filipino and half NZ-European, and grew up in Northland where she was taught that pounamu is a precious taonga passed down through generations.
Luke Leaf
Luke spent the first 18 years of his life growing up in Ross, a small town on the West Coast of the South Island, also the home of New Zealand greenstone. Luke is a leading artist in contemporary jade carving, and his style is an amalgamation of traditional and modern design, finding inspiration from natural organic forms.
