Artists shortlisted for Wanganui’s inaugural sculpture event - 25/05/2010

Five sculptural works by local and national artists have been shortlisted for installation along the riverfront in Wanganui, for the inaugural Sculpture Wanganui event. The event starts in mid September and runs for two weeks.

A call for submissions from interested artists led to 12 entries being considered by a selection panel, which included Mayor Michael Laws and Sarjeant Gallery Senior Curator Greg Anderson. The entries were diverse and employed a wide range of materials and perspectives, each offering a different artistic interpretation of the use of the riverfront area.

The shortlisted artists are Daniel Clifford, Paul Dibble, Mikel Durel Browne (in conjunction with Kerry McDonnell and Max Cody), Sarah Mauvan and Matt Pine. The artists’ works will be installed and on display in the riverfront area, near the new Visitor Information Centre, during the two week event.

The sculptures will be judged by Rob Garrett. Garrett is a member of Wellington City Council’s Public Art Panel, led Auckland City Council’s public art review and provides public art advice to local government and private commissioners. The announcement of the prizes, including a ‘people’s choice’ award, will be made at an awards presentation during the event. Each artist will receive a contribution towards the installation and/or transportation costs for their work.

Cr Nicki Higgie, council spokesperson for the arts is looking forward to the event getting under way.

“Sculpture Wanganui is a new and exciting event for our city, which will become an annual fixture in the Wanganui arts calendar, attracting national and international interest.

“The calibre of both locally and nationally renowned artists who made submissions for the event was incredibly high. Local people and visitors will be treated to a stunning array of public art. With a people’s choice award they will also be able to help choose which sculptures will be sited along the riverfront.”

Once the event closes, two works will remain and be sited along the riverfront area. The existing sculptures will be joined next year by the winners of Sculpture Wanganui 2011.

“This years event is the start of the process of creating long lasting public art along our riverfront, making it an attractive, exciting and vibrant place for everyone. Over time the city will build up a wonderful riverside collection of sculptural work, which will become a major cultural drawcard.

“I am delighted that council has been able to establish this fantastic event in Wanganui, which already has a well earned reputation for the arts and for excellence and innovation in glass art. We will soon be known for our riverside sculptures as well.”

ENDS