Pipi Rutherford's forte is wooden spoons, works of art with a practical purpose.
Waimamaku might be a little off the beaten track, but it is a community rich in creative talent, much of which will go on public display at an artisans' fair in the Morrell's Cafe carpark and Waimamaku Hall on Sunday June 3, Queen's Birthday weekend, 10am to 3pm.
The fair
will include exhibitions and demonstrations by local woodworkers and harakeke weavers, and stalls offering locally-produced art and craft works.
The organisers say there is a wide range of talent to be celebrated and showcased, the wood carvers and flax weavers, who are continuing a long tradition of such arts in the district, will be particularly strong.
"As some of the older artisans retire, their reputations and skills will pass as well, and the fair is to celebrate their work and contribution in local, national and international spheres," a spokesperson said.
"One participant of particular note is Allan Gale, who has lived at Waiotemarama for many years now, working in various media. Beginning with wood carving (bowls and platters), he later included chair-making, bone-carving and relief sculpture. These days he is famous for his multiblock engravings, which grace many a gallery.
