Bio

For over 30 years Alex has been involved in many projects working with traditional materials such as bone, shell, stone and wood.  From the massive rock carvings around Lake Taupo in 1979 to the relocation and development of Matatina Marae in the early 80’s.

In 1986 his focus was directed toward mediating historical grievances of his tribe over land and resources with the Crown. This meant his time for his jewellery production was minimal, creating a constant demand from collectors for his unique pieces.

“I was for a number of years directly involved in a Waitangi Tribunal process in respect of my iwi / hapu land and resources claims during which time issues relating to Taonga were traversed at length.  Taonga is an umbrella term, which includes a broad range of both tangible and intangible treasures.

In 1991 I met Michael Kabotie the renowned Hopi painter and silversmith who introduced me to the traditional Hopi overlay method of constructing jewellery.

My work reflects an evolving process of adaptation and exploration of traditional Maori designs and motifs drawn from whakairo, kowhaiwhai, tukutuku and taniko, using the non-traditional medium.  Pieces are constructed from sterling silver sheet and wire and which feature hand carved finishing.

In 2008 during the Indian Market held annually in Santa Fe, New Mexico Michael and I were invited to exhibit in a two man show at the Glenn Green Gallery in Tesuque. This was essentially a Master and Apprentice show held 17 years after we first met. Sadly Michael passed away within weeks of that occasion.”

Alex’s work has been exhibited in “Fusion: Tradition & Discovery” (1999) and at “Kiwa – Pacific Connections” (2003) both at the Spirit Wrestler Gallery in Vancouver, Canada.

An ongoing passion for Alex is his work with his community in the Far North that keeps his work closely paralleled to his experiences with the land and natural world of the great Northland forests. He works tirelessly to encourage young people to experience the natural environment.

His efforts in working for cultural exhanges in United States, Canada and Hawaii maintain his commitment to returning to emerging jewellers those skills he acquired. His works is shown publicly and held in private collections in USA, Japan and Canada as well as Te Papa – The National Museum of New Zealand and the New Dowse Gallery.