Aotearoa artists, Kemi & Niko, alchemise a love of tramping vernacular with a skillful appreciation of construction materials rich in history.
Inspired by hut builders of old, we explore the eccentricities of specific backcountry huts — experimenting with scale and materials in keeping with the integrity and spirit of Aotearoa’s rich, egalitarian backcountry culture.
Our collectable Mini Huts and original artworks (or Hutworks) are well sought after throughout the motu serving to connect backcountry lovers to their sense of place while utilising real materials that have a positive impact on the environment, including the unique use of tin cans.
Kemi Whitwell & Niko Leyden have a dedicated background in fine craft sculpture of salvaged materials and creative communication. Innovative crafting of waste materials over the past 12 years has led to large, community-engaged, public art and speaking engagements.
We live rurally, with our two daughters, on a multi-generational Waikato property. Any spare moments are used tending to the garden and regenerating bush that Niko’s grandparents started, while also building our bespoke tiny house on wheels from reclaimed materials.
