BELOVED local, renowned artist, jeweller, woodcarver and teacher, Hape Kiddle, is a self-proclaimed jack of all trades and master of none.
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Despite being labelled a 'master carver' by many in the industry, the humble maker spends his days at the Old Cottage Gallery, crafting extraordinary art that speaks from the soul.
"I think this is a particularly important place in the story of this region, and particularly of Griffith," Mr Kiddle said.
Mr Kiddle moved to Griffith a decade ago, after travelling back and forth from the MIA central hub for 10 years prior.
"When you move out to a small community you play a lot of different roles," Mr Kiddle explained.
"There are lots of things I've been fortunate enough to have been involved with in the community here, but my highlight was several years ago when I carved some wooden spoons that were sold to donate money to the Griffith Public School food program.
"It was an incredible experience for me because I got to see the power of the community, and I got to play such a significant role in that."
Mr Kiddle has accumulated a considerable following for his art, perfecting his craft over a number of decades and featuring in a number of high-end projects that have gifted him an impressive CV.
That experience is what led his handcrafted spoons for Griffith Public to be sold in just half an hour.
"You can have all the accolades in the world and you can win awards, but none of it really has the power of truly participating and helping the community," Mr Kiddle said.
The highly-acclaimed artist has truly found his home soil in the MIA, marrying his partner of 20 years late last year and putting his two children through school locally.
When asked about acquired wisdom from the life he has led, Mr Kiddle laughed and gave an endearing response.
"You shouldn't lick fly swatters and balloons animals are art," he smiled.
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