Airlock Pendant| Pakohe (Argilite)

Known to Māori as pakohe, and to geologists as metamorphosed indurated mudstone, argillite is particularly associated with the Nelson-Marlborough region in New Zealand. It is found on Rangitoto (D'Urville Island), along the Whangamoa mineral belt, and in the upper reaches of the Maitai, Wairoa and Motueka Rivers.
Earliest Māori communities recognised its superior qualities of hardness, strength, and ability to hold a sharpened edge, ideal for making tools (especially adzes) and weapons. Another property – conchoidal fracture (like that of obsidian – volcanic glass) provided a source of razor-sharp flakes for filleting fish, preparing roots and vegetables, woodcarving, flax work and net-making.


Scott Taylor | Stone Artist  

I explore the dynamic relationship between the natural environment and the man-made world. Drawing inspiration from my childhood love of science fiction, I aim to spark the imagination and encourage people to view the world through a curious lens. 


I love the beauty of clean and simple objects. This inspires me to refine my designs by removing elements rather than adding them. My goal is to achieve an effortless and uncomplicated aesthetic without falling into the realm of the ordinary. While I am naturally drawn to symmetry, I also find inspiration in some unexpected and sometimes bizarre objects or situations. My passion for science fiction, combined with New Zealand's ingenuity and engineering spirit, invariably influences my work in one way or another. 


Ultimately, I aim to create beautiful and refined objects that people can truly enjoy and cherish just as much as I enjoy bringing them to life!