Pixel Tracking

Carving a Niche

Date: 01-11-2022
Success Story

 

Myka Boots

Myka Boots has turned his passion for stone carvings into a full-time profession, carving intricate, thought-provoking designs from his home workshop in Ostend on Waiheke Island.

Myka’s adventure into carving began after buying a dremel for forty dollars, fifteen years ago. He brought his design to life and continues to wear it proudly around his neck to this day.  

Initially he carved for the creative outlet it provided and to craft gifts for friends, whilst making the odd sale here and there. With the dramatic onset of Covid-19, one door was about to close, but another was about to open!

The lockdowns left Myka with the opportunity to devote more time to his craft. He says, “Over the first lockdown, I had all my tools, so I spent time carving. I was able to turn my hobby into a full-time business/lifestyle.”

With the aid of social media and associated marketing Myka has boosted his profile to an international audience. Myka says, “Small items like necklaces can be sent easily all over the world.” 

He has a number of his necklaces for sale at a local gallery and is keen on doing a show focused only on exhibiting his pendants, something he thinks may be unique to Waiheke.

Myka sources his materials from beaches and rivers, spending up to two weeks actively looking for pounamu at the top of the South Island near Nelson. While pounamu is the most popular material requested by customers who commission him to create something unique and extraordinary, he sculpts from other stones, including Jasper, Grossular Garnets and Cherts. 

The stone gathering process is something Myka considers a ‘sacred practice’. He says, “Stones have always held a special place in my life, and I spend a lot of my time walking in remote areas, scouring mountains and streams. Brilliantly coloured stones can also be found in rivers, with bluestones among the rarest and most treasured for jewellery.”

Myka says, “Stones are from the galaxy, and they all hold different energies. It's a vibration you can feel, and everything has a different frequency, and that’s why I like playing with the alchemy side of it. What's beautiful about pounamu is that it’s a grounding stone - it makes you feel connected to the earthand the land we are on.”

Myka says passionately, “Carvings are an heirloom you can pass on to grandkids. They really make the ultimate gift for a lifetime. Stones change how we experience and see life and how other people connect with us. I love the way they make people feel. That's why I do it.”

Connect with Myka
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Myka Boots    Myka Boots

Join Our Newsletter

Stay up-to-date with the latest products and get exclusive discounts straight to your inbox! Including 5% off your next order.