Sculptors Showcase Talent at Te Kupenga Stone Sculpture Event

The annual Carve In event at the Te Kupenga Stone Sculpture Society took place from January 10 to January 18, 2024, drawing in artists and onlookers eager to witness the transformation of raw stone into intricate sculptures. This eight-day event allowed participants to engage deeply with their craft, using tools to carve and shape heavy blocks of rock into artistic forms.

Celebrating Art and Community

The Carve In is one of the society’s flagship events, alongside a symposium that invites international artists for a three-week carving session, culminating in a public viewing and auction. Approximately 40 members of the club participated in this year’s Carve In, sharing their passion and skills with the community.

Among the participating artists was Michael Hope, the club’s chairperson, who dedicated his efforts to a sculpture honoring his mother, a resident of Christchurch. Hope described his artistic process as one of “subtraction,” emphasizing the importance of revealing the design hidden within the stone. He noted the significant interest from the public, with many visitors stopping by to observe the sculptors at work and inquire about purchasing pieces.

“It’s wonderful to see people engaging with the art and the artists,” Hope said.

International Influence and Collaboration

This year’s event also featured Om Khattri, a senior lecturer in sculpture at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, who was invited by local artist Renate Verbrugge. Khattri utilized mixed media, including stone, wood, and metal casting, to create his works. During his visit to New Plymouth, he completed a piece titled Confluence and emphasized the collaborative spirit he observed among artists.

“The lack of barriers between senior and junior artists is inspiring. They share ideas and support each other,” Khattri remarked, highlighting the inclusive environment fostered by the society.

Emerging sculptor Nikki Lilomaiava also participated, taking a week off work to refine a piece she began the previous year. She described the process of carving, sanding, and polishing as “therapeutic,” revealing the joy and satisfaction that comes from watching a sculpture come to life through hard work.

“It’s like finding treasure,” Lilomaiava said, reflecting on the rewarding experience of seeing her vision materialize.

The Carve In not only showcases the skill and dedication of stone sculptors but also creates a vibrant community atmosphere where artists can learn from each other and share their passion for the craft. As the event concluded, the Te Kupenga Stone Sculpture Society reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing artistic talent and fostering a love for sculpture among the public.