No.8 - HeARTh Tales talks to Jamie Smith - Kiln Studio - Ceramicist, Kiln Studio & Clay Week co-creator
In this interview, Jamie Smith, co-founder of Kiln Studio and Nelson Clay Week, unpacks the complexities of running a successful creative venture. Hear his experiences on valuing your work, navigating the market, and practical tips for getting your art seen, alongside a discussion on the evolving landscape of pottery in the digital age.
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42:06
No.7 - HeARTh Tales talks to Conway Juene - Fat Freddy's Drop - Musician
This episode of HeARTh Tales features a conversation with Conway Jeune, a talented musician from Aotearoa, New Zealand, known for his work with Fat Freddy's Drop and TOI. The interview explores his musical journey, influences, and experiences in the industry. It offers insights into his creative process and the collaborative nature of his work, providing a glimpse into the life of a successful musician in the New Zealand music scene.
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33:41
No.6 - HeARTh Tales talks to Antoinette Wilson of Happen Films - Film Maker
This engaging interview features Antoinette from Happen Films, a documentary filmmaking duo based in Upper Moutere, Tasman, and Victoria, Australia. Host Rich McCoy, himself navigating the challenges of an alternative off-grid lifestyle in the Tasman region and currently facing bureaucratic hurdles with the local council, warmly welcomes Antoinette. She recounts her unconventional journey into filmmaking after two decades in book publishing, finding a natural partnership with co-founder Jordan Osmond. Their shared passion for addressing global sustainability issues evolved into a focus on telling the stories of individuals making positive lifestyle changes, aiming to inspire wider societal shifts towards a lighter ecological footprint.Antoinette reflects on the challenges of sustaining motivation through lengthy film projects and the unique power of independent documentaries to reconsider established social narratives. She shares insights into Happen Films' ethical approach to representing their subjects, prioritising trust and ensuring the final product resonates with the individuals sharing their lives. Looking ahead, Antoinette outlines their keen interest in exploring themes of village life, localisation, and community resilience, resonating with Rich's experiences of seeking self-sufficiency and community in the face of external pressures. She also allows listeners to connect with Happen Films and view their inspiring work online and at local screenings.
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47:05
No.5 - HeARTh Tales talks to Ali Brown - Harakeke Flax Weaver
Join us as we explore the intricate world of Ali Brown, a dedicated flax weaver and author from Aotearoa, New Zealand. For over two decades, Ali has passionately embraced the art of harakeke, sharing her knowledge through five acclaimed books and a deep commitment to accessibility. Discover her journey from a curious beginner to a respected teacher, driven by the beauty and sustainability of this native craft. Ali reflects on her diverse creative past and how it informs her contemporary weaving style, emphasising the importance of understanding the harakeke itself and the cultural tikanga surrounding its use. We delve into the challenges facing weavers today, particularly in valuing their work, and hear Ali's insightful advice for aspiring artists and those seeking to share their creative passions with the world while finding inspiration in the natural world around them.Rich also rambles about the bright yellow van with a moustache they just purchased that goes into cloaked mode, turning itself invisible on the roads at whim. He also talks about working spaces and his fascination with artists spaces.
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46:44
No.4 - HeARTh Tales talks to Mat Tait - Graphic Novel Illustrator & Writer
This episode of Hearth Tales opens with a personal introduction from the host, delving into their own reflections and ongoing work concerning cultural imperialism. They share thoughts on critiquing media behemoths like Marvel and Disney, touching upon the sometimes humorous ways this critical work has been misunderstood or misjudged.The core of the episode features an insightful conversation with illustrator and writer Mat Tait. Mat discusses his journey, focusing on his passion for creating children's picture books that often tackle significant Māori narratives like The Adventures of Tupaea and his bilingual retelling of the Rangi and Papa separation story, Te Wehenga – a project born from a story that deeply resonated with him since childhood. He shares his process, which involves deep research through reading and consulting with knowledge holders, and developing text (often initially in te reo Māori) and imagery side-by-side from rough sketches.Mat reflects on the permeable boundary between myth and the tangible world, acknowledging the responsibility of carrying these living stories and the guidance found within that connection. He explores the multi-layered truths within these narratives, discussing how interpretations evolve and how they manifest as vital cultural throughlines in contemporary society. The conversation also covers the practicalities of working with publishers like Allen & Unwin, navigating the New Zealand book market, and Mat offers valuable advice for aspiring creators, emphasizing that perseverance is often more crucial than innate talent. He also touches upon the character he felt particularly connected to while illustrating – Tupaea.Adding another layer of personal reflection, the host also shares a poignant anecdote from their own life about the simple act of making a box, connecting it to a meaningful experience with their father dating back 30 years.Join us for an episode blending critical cultural commentary, Mat Tait's deep artistic insight into bringing myth and history to life, practical advice for creatives, and resonant personal storytelling.
HeARTh Tales brings you the voices of artists, musicians, visionaries and those that love them, offering insights and guidance for your own creative path.
New Zealand