 Brian began bone carving in 1976 because it seemed an interesting and inexpensive hobby. Turning that interest into an art form was slow, and without meeting another carver for several years he developed techniques which uniquely influence his work.
Support and guidance from the Māori community has been the greatest influence on his carving. Therefore he considers having works in their rightful home at Marae to be the most satisfying acknowledgement possible.
His attitude to carving bone is inspired by that of traditional artists, who strove for excellence in order to please the spirit world. Their understanding that harmony is the balance of spiritual and physical has enriched both his life and his carving. This is expressed in the balancing of positive and negative design elements;(the carving and the shapes cut-out), and produces strong profile images.
An absorbing interest in the art of the West Coast Canadian Indian people led him to research animal forms in Māori Art. This remains a focus through which he can express his personal love of, and concern for, nature.
A new direction inspired by the miniature carving tradition of Japanese Netsuke has also strengthened his technique and reputation, having exhibited his work with contemporary Netsuke carvers in Tokyo.
He has also gained recognition by being made an Artist member of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts.
His home studio in the peaceful estuary setting on Point Road, Monaco, a suburb of Nelson at the top of New Zealand's South Island, is open to visitors, though it is wise to phone first on 03 547 3350. You may even wish to stop afterwards for lunch or a drink at 'The Honest Lawyer' just around the road.
Here are some samples of his art. Others are shown on the gallery page. These, or similar pieces, are available for purchase or commission. To purchase your own example of this precious art contact him at the address below.
Postal Address:
89 Point Road
Monaco
Nelson
Aotearoa
Phone/Fax: +64 3 547 3350
Email:
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Brian Flintoff 
