Born and raised in West Auckland, Steven Cole (Dragicevich) draws from a rich blend of Pākehā and Croatian heritage. His upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for whānau, craftsmanship, and the natural beauty of Aotearoa, shaping both his creative direction and his commitment to taonga that honour tradition while embracing refined, modern form.

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Steven’s path as a carver began with the support of his grandfather, Bob Dragicevich (Didi), whose encouragement opened the door to his artistic journey. Under the guidance of master carver Dennis Conway, a close family friend recognised for his work with Ōrākei Marae, Steven developed foundational skills in Māori-inspired wood and bone carving, learning the importance of cultural integrity, storytelling, and aesthetic restraint.

 

From his home studio in the lush Waitākere Ranges, Steven now works exclusively with pounamu. His pieces reflect the natural qualities of each stone, guided by a minimalist approach to form and line. Drawing on traditional Māori principles and contemporary design, he carves taonga that feel both grounded and quietly distinctive.

 

Steven is proud to be recognised as a Ngāi Tahu artisan. His pounamu is sourced from trusted suppliers who uphold ethical and cultural standards. For Steven, carving is not simply craft, it is a process of transformation, where raw stone becomes an embodiment of land, lineage, and individuality.

 

His work is showcased through Kura Gallery in both Auckland and Wellington, where it continues to resonate with those who value the intersection of heritage, material, and modern expression.

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