Sponsored: Redefining contemporary design

Abbie Scott’s IOStudio in Richmond contains an array of her work as a mixed-media artist, designer, and maker, reflecting a unique approach to contemporary design. Her creations embody a fusion of natural materials, handcraftsmanship, and innovative use of recycled and found elements, including wood, glass, metal, and other objects.

Abbie’s journey into the artistic world was influenced by a childhood surrounded by craftsmanship. Her parents, both skilled in design and furniture making, instilled in her a love for creating. However, her path to becoming a full-time artist took a winding route.

A move to Houston, Texas, for her husband’s job meant she was unable to continue her career as a veterinary surgeon. The family suffered a traumatic home invasion soon after arriving in Houston. “Making art and volunteering in the healing arts was my therapy,” says Abbie.

“Houston allowed me to explore, collaborate and complete large installation works for private collectors, as well as for public and charitable purposes. I experimented with different techniques and avoided rigid patterns typically associated with stained glass art. I worked intuitively, embracing ‘happy accidents.’”

Three years in Aberdeen, Scotland, followed before the expat family headed home to New Zealand. Abbie extensively renovated, extended, and landscaped her Richmond home – a process she describes as a long and costly ‘art installation.’ She then started on the modern studio space and workshops, so she could continue to develop and share her work.

Abbie’s works are characterised by a delicate balance of fragility and strength. Whether it’s a sculptural flower wall-hanging, a large steel garden sculpture, or a light box, her pieces embrace light and shadow to create a dynamic visual experience. Refractions – whether on the floor, walls, or windowsills – add layers of depth and dimension, transforming simple objects into engaging, multifaceted experiences. Small, quirky sculptures, mixed media paintings, highly individualised sculptures, and functional light boxes or vases, blending form and function, create a cohesive collection that is unmistakably hers.

Contemporary yet unconventional, Abbie resists repetition, perfection, and symmetry while she constantly pushing the boundaries of her materials, creating work that can be both visually striking and thought-provoking. Considering the impact of building practices on the environment, as well as sustainability and social implications, has inspired works such as her Tactical Urbanisationand Managed Retreatseries.

She aims to create art that is accessible and relevant, while always striving for artistic freedom and the joy of discovery.

Visitors are welcome to visit IOStudio by appointment or on specific open days. A growing collection of outdoor sculptures set on the large property complements the indoor gallery space. “I enjoy inviting people into my creative world and allowing them to experience art in a new and personal way,” says Abbie.

021 190 1104
IOStudio.co.nz