Artist Showcase: Don MacBeth
Don MacBeth came to New Zealand from Scotland over 40 ago and now lives in Feilding with his wife Rochelle (aka) “Rockymac” who is a successful local artist. Don has long been involved in the arts through music – he’s been in rock bands and participated in musical theatre for most of his life.
Ten years ago, Don started painting. First in acrylics and then in oils. His paintings are now hung in private collections around New Zealand.
Don’s current focus is the art of wood burning (pyrography). It’s an artform that excites him and one he wants to showcase as a true artform, not just a craft. Pyrography is normally created by burning soft woods, but Don’s love of the texture and grains of native woods has led him down a less traditional path. Don’s woodburning is typically done on reclaimed native timber which he cuts and shapes at the Feilding MenzShed before finishing and adding his own artwork at home.
Don is currently busy working on commissions for private and corporate clients. However, a selection of his woodburned charcuterie boards are available to buy now at Feilding Art Centre.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.5% Yes
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14.1% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Small electrical job
I have a ceramic lamp base that I’d like to be made in to a lamp. Anyone out there that can do the job?
Thank you!
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.