Steve Funaki

Tonga

Steve Sili Funaki grew up in Tonga and has been carving for more than 15 years in his chosen mediums paraoa (bone) and pounamu (NZ jade). He has been trained and mentored by greenstone carver Peter Akker who was taught by master greenstone carver Hepi Maxwell in the early 80’s.

Funaki has developed a clean, detailed style and specialises in adornment and small sculptural works.

Funaki’s love for the beauty of pounamu, bone and the unique culture of Aotearoa (New Zealand) is what inspires his work. His work can be found in many international and national private collections.