Posted by Les Divers on Aug 01, 2019

Public Art adds uniqueness to our communities, improves the image and identity of the local environment we inhabit and directly influences how people see and connect with a place. It delights, welcomes, challenges and inspires. It asks questions, tells stories and impacts different people in different ways. It celebrates richness and creativity. It transfixes public places and can have a utilitarian effect.

Richard McWha is the Auckland Council arts and culture manager and on Monday evening he demonstrated the impact various pieces of public art around Auckland have had. Richard and Nichola Waugh, an arts and culture project manager at Auckland Council, are both involved in the Pakuranga Rotary's 50th anniversary project to commission a work to install along the Rotary walkway at Sanctuary Point.

The site has been selected and a number of artists have provided concepts. Those proposals are currently in the early testing stage to determine stability, durability and longevity. Richard indicated that the concepts entered are exciting and is confident that the end result will be an iconic unique and enduring sculpture. As development progresses further consultation will take place with the club to inform any final decision.

The illustrations and information provided by Richard and Nicola of the various artistic works that now complement Auckland’s public spaces was illuminating. The Rotary walkway is the most enduring visible manifestation of the Pakuranga Rotary's commitment to the community and can be enhanced by pieces of public art.

Pakuranga Rotarians - Allan Vester and Kelvin Davies are devoting time and enthusiasm to the project. If you wish to find out more, then contact Allan and Kelvin.

Auckland Council - Public art on the waterfront

What you will find

Nine works of art can be found in one of Auckland's most historic quarters, and complement the views along the Waitematā Harbour foreshore.

Each work represents one of the myriad forms, themes and styles of work that have characterised New Zealand's art scene over past decades.

A Māori Figure in a Kaitaka Cloak

Information about A Maori Figure in a Kaitiaka Cloak by artist Molly Macalister in 1967.

Fire Window

Information about Fire Window, the first sculpture to be installed at the Viaduct Harbour.

Raupo Rap

Information about Raupo Rap, created by artist Dennis O'Connor in 2005.

Sounds of Sea

Information about Sounds of Sea is based on the ventilation funnels and speaking tubes used by ships.