Expertise to be carved in stone | Oamaru News | Local News in Oamaru

Oamaru's Takaro Park will become home to  about 25 carvers in November as they test their skills at the Oamaru Stone Symposium.

Event organiser Matt King said the eighth symposium,  to be held over two weeks, would be the best yet.

The event had a reputation as one of the most welcoming and supportive  in New Zealand, he said.

Artists pay a registration fee and  receive a block of Oamaru stone and a lunch provided every day by the Roost.

Mr King said at this stage it seemed about half the artists  would be women. The experience level ranged from novices to carving experts.

Most would be from the South Island. Despite a lot of international interest,  Mr King said he was not sure whether overseas artists would be able to make it.

Parkside Quarries provides the Oamaru stone.

"It isn't for free but they do give us a good deal," Mr King said.

The event was looking for two people with excellent communication skills to act as site managers, he said.

Any artists or performers wanting the chance to showcase their talents at the event would also be  appreciated, Mr King said.

To get involved call Matt King on 03 4395 087 or email him on matt.liz.king@gmail.com