Artist Profile: Matt Smiler

Carver/Toi Iho Artist

Matt Smiler is of Rongowhakaata and Te-Aitanga-a-Mahaki tribal descent.

Matt is a fourth generation carver who grew up in Gisborne where his father was a traditional Maori carver and Matt’s great grandfather was a Tohunga Whakairo (Master Carver).

Matt began carving when he moved to Wellington and completed the National Certificate in Carving (Whakairo rakau) under the guidance of master carver, Rangi Hetet. Matt remained and worked at the Hetet Studios for a further 2 years and continued to be tutored by Sam Hauwaho. During his stay, Matt created works to supply galleries of traditional Maori carving. He also did a few contemporary pieces carved in stone (kohatu).

Matt continued his passion for carving by successfully completing a 3 year scholarship at the ‘New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute’ in Rotorua. During his time there he completed many traditional pieces, from which he has submitted for exhibitions and has sold his work nationwide and internationally.

Matt is very passionate about carving timber. “I think our ancestors were masters at their craft and have left us a great foundation to take forward”.

*The Toi Iho maori made mark is a registered trade mark of authenticity and quality for Maori arts and crafts. When you purchase a piece with the Toi Iho label attached it means you have purchased a quality product that has been created by a person of Maori descent.