WEST COAST GALLERY
PIHA

Andy Mardell began wood carving around 20 years ago. His preference is to use native New Zealand timbers, in particular swamp kauri root-balls as the grain of this wood provides many different colours which when carved and oiled takes on the appearance of seaweed or the cosmic swirls of the sun.

 

The principal motivation of his work is to show off the unique qualities of the native timbers and to encourage people to connect with nature through art. Andy only works with fallen native trees to create forms that reflect nature’s shapes.

 

His studio is his garage at North Piha and when he’s not creating art, Andy’s enjoying surfing, skiing and fishing.