Back in 2005, I was pruning a large tree and fell. That Sunday proved to be a 180° turning point in my life. I became a T12 paraplegic and have spent the last few years of my life figuring out a “new normal” for myself and my family.
For a time, I carried on with my painting business, but physical limitations and pain meant I wasn’t particularly effective as the owner of a painting business anymore.
I began filling my days whilst rehabbing dabbling with things like Oamaru stone carving, painting and finally stumbled upon jewelry making as a hobby. I had help from experts like Brian Adams up in Auckland and Hayley Lee down here in Wanaka and finally began to hone my skills and work out what my style might be.
I love working with what nature provides – particularly pounamu (greenstone), paua, mother of pearl and other stone. I like to mix these materials with silver and to bring out their natural beauty. I have spent most of my time crafting rings and pendants but am evolving my skills and like to work with people to create what they like.
I work from home in between looking after my wife, my dog Ted (sitting in front of the red door), the cat Tana and the chooks. I like to bike on my hand-cycle, swim, sail, ski and take the dog for walk.
I hope that my jewelry will appeal to some of you. Feel free to contact me if you are interested in it.
Cheers, Geoff.
