No.12 - HeARTh Tales talks to Che Vincent, Sculptor, Bonsai Master, Landscape Artist
In this episode of HeARTh Tales, Rich McCoy speaks with artist, gardener, and third-generation Riverside Community member Che Vincent, whose creative journey bridges sculptural metalwork and the living, evolving art of bonsai. Che shares insights into his deep connection with place, his fascination with growth patterns and fractals, and how native New Zealand species are shaping a unique bonsai style. From shaping flame-cut copper chandeliers to planting immersive forest cathedrals, Che’s work is as much about ecological intimacy as it is about personal expression. A rich, thoughtful conversation about time, patience, creativity, and the quiet protest of growing a tree in a pot.
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No.11 - HeARTh Tales talks to Daryll Frost - Potter & gallery Owner
In this episode of HeARTh Tales, Rich McCoy speaks with acclaimed ceramic artist Daryl Frost about his decades-long journey from builder to potter and his deep dedication to the Anagama wood-firing technique. Daryl shares the raw realities behind his bold, elemental work—crafted through fire, clay, and intuition—including firing his 100th kiln and even using his hip bone in a glaze. With humour and depth, he reflects on risk, creativity, post-firing emotions, and the spiritual alchemy of handmade objects in a world of mass production.
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No.10 - HeARTh Tales talks to Donna McLeod - Author, Playwright, Creative Director, Arts Worker
Welcome to Heart Tales, the podcast that shares the stories at the heart of Aotearoa’s rich cultural landscape. Today, we’re honoured to have Donna McLeod with us — an artist whose journey began in a curtain-making workshop in New Plymouth during the Think Big era, where family, creativity, and community came together.Donna’s path has been shaped by early encounters with iconic New Zealand artists and theatre groups, nurturing Māori stories through libraries and public art. Her work carries a deep spiritual connection — a bolt of lightning that can strike anywhere, anytime.Join us as Donna shares her experiences weaving Māori heritage into contemporary art, the magic of collaboration across communities, and the vital role of storytelling in preserving culture. We’ll explore the taniwha of Motuika, the power of public spaces for Māori expression, and her inspiring vision for the future of Māori art in Aotearoa and beyond.
In this episode of HeARTh Tales, host Rich McCoy sits down with Rennie Pearson, a multi-instrumentalist whose flute mastery shines in the world of Celtic music. Rennie shares his inspiring journey, from a childhood fascination ignited by Chris Norman to reconnecting with traditional Irish music later in life. He candidly discusses the universal challenges artists face, like self-doubt and impostor syndrome. He reveals his strategies for overcoming creative blocks, drawing inspiration from spiritual practices, nature, and fellow musicians.Discover how Rennie balances dynamic musical collaboration with heartfelt storytelling in his performances, creating an emotional journey for his audience. We also touch on his unique connection to Celtic heritage, particularly his work in New Zealand and Australia, and his current focus on weaving original compositions into his traditional style. Learn about his project "Half Light" with Bob McNeil and where to find his music.
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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.
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