Born in Wakatipu and a descendant of Ngāti Kura, Damian’s kaupapa toi skill set encompasses Whakairo, Ta Moko and Rauangi (visual art).
Damian is a graduate of Maunga Kura Toi, Bachelor of Māori Art – Whakairo, and has been employed as Kaiwhakairo at the Whakaraupō Carving Centre Trust.
Raised in Hornby, Ōtautahi, Damian was introduced to whakairo at school and developed his ability to draw Mahi Toi from a young age, before learning the craft of Ta Moko and later being given the opportunity to study whakairo at Northtec, Whangarei.
As a young tāne Damian has represented Aotearoa in Rugby League playing in Australia and England. He has held a variety of roles during his working career and holds two trade qualifications and experience working in the safety industry both in Australia and Aotearoa.
‘”I feel very fortunate to be employed as a Kaiwhakairo at the Whakaraupō Carving Centre a supporting and upholding the mana of our people through mahi toi”
