As a nature lover and rock gatherer from an early age, Amie Redpath, of Ngai Tahu and European descent, began her exploration with rock carving in 2011. Back then she crafted a simple mortar and pestle from rocks she collected from the beach out on Great Mercury Island.
This initiative came from necessity, of good working tools for the kitchen. She sat down in the driveway with her husband’s tools and protective gear a bit hesitant at first. Back then Amie had been doing some cooking as part of her job.
Later, after the family moved to Whangarei Heads in 2017,
Amie crafted another mortar and pestle for an engagement present. Feedback from family and friends was very positive, so during her baby’s daily sleeps, she began workshop hours crafting mortar and pestles. Her business Homeground Stonecrafted was born that year.
Since then, after many vessels, plates and bowls for numerous top restaurants such as Craggy Range Vineyard (11th of 2021 Top 100 in the World) and Mr Morris (Supreme Winner of Auckland’s Top 50), by top chef Michael Meredith in Auckland. You can find her work around in stores and galleries across New Zealand and in Byron Bay.
Her inspiration comes from nature and from her deep interest in the ancient world. She draws from ancient Europe, the Stone Age and Bronze Age in particular and the Pacific Islands. Her work demonstrates a certain rawness in some aspects, a real connection with Nature; alongside the more refined.
Earlier this year she ran the stone carving tent at Collaborationz in Taurikura, working with 70 odd other artists from around New Zealand. She has also worked in collaboration on the Dance of Geometry Collection with designer Lyzadie Design Studio, Auckland.
Amie is available for commissions.
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