IGNITING THE CENTRAL CITY

WORDS Joshua Brosnahan PHOTO Supplied

Vibrancy and pops of colour continue to be dropped around Ōtautahi with more than a dozen artworks set to ignite the central city this month, thanks to SCAPE Public Art’s Season 2019 – Aotearoa’s pre-eminent public art festival.

Running from October 5 to November 16, Season 2019 takes the iconic game Rock: Paper: Scissors as its starting point. Curated by Emma Bugden and linked via the SCAPE Public Art Walkway (which you can get on an app!), it features artworks that make us think and feel: about what home means, the emotional resonance of materials, and the patterns and rituals that help us make sense of the world.

For the first time, this year you can vote for your favourite Season 2019 artwork – and be in to win flights for two to China. The people have spoken; Anderson Lloyd People’s Choice Award has been generously supported by China Southern Airlines, and you can enter by simply filling in the season survey on the SCAPE website.

Playful strategy or a battle of wills, Season 2019 features inspiring artworks from local and internationally renowned artists. The artworks are complemented by a series of interactive public events that kick off with a free Hellers Family Fun Day, at the Margaret Mahy Family Playground on Saturday, October 5.

Most events are free of charge and include guided walks, art workshops, an exhibition at Tūranga Central Library and artist talks. Join the SCAPE team as they unveil new artworks, including a culturally-infused family-friendly event on Saturday, October 19 to celebrate the installation of Sui Jianguo’s Made in China – a large-scale sculpture located beside the Ōtākaro Avon River.

Season 2019 is also the perfect opportunity to explore SCAPE’s 15 permanent legacy pieces, including the freshly unveiled VAKA ‘A HINA, by Sēmisi Fetokai Poutauaine. The striking, 16-metre tall sculpture in Christchurch’s East Frame adds a touch of Tongan and Aotearoa New Zealand culture to further complement the city’s cultural diversity and understanding.

Natalie Guy The Pool 2018–19. Image courtesy of the artist and SCAPE Public Art.

scapepublicart.org.nz