Media Release

16 February 2016

New Trevor Nathan sculpture unveiled in Kuirau Park

A new sculpture has today been lifted into place at the entrance to Rotorua’s Kuirau Park.

The artwork recognises the natural flora present in the park and is a celebration of the natural surroundings.

It depicts a pohutakawa stamen, the pollen-producing central part of the flower, and was completed by well-known local artist Trevor Nathan whose idea it was to illustrate one of the flowers present in Kuirau Park.

“It’s loosely based on the stamen of flowers. I recognise that art is supposed to create conversations and this one will. All I’m hoping is people appreciate it for what it is.”

The artwork is at a point of the park where people can do a 360 degree walk around the whole piece and can be clearly seen by passers-by on Ranolf St.

The seven beams weigh a total of 250 kgs and the number picks up on the gardening theme of arranging groups of plants in odd numbers to create eye-catching compositions that are visually balanced and harmonious.

Mr Nathan, who has been sculpting full time since 2003, works primarily with a variety of hard and soft stone and wood. He is also the artist behind the Te Tui Nui sculpture that sits on the corner of Eruera and Tutanekai Sts.

His work is strongly influenced by his dual New Zealand Maori and European heritage and the impact of those cultures in contemporary New Zealand society.

Creative Portfolio lead Trevor Maxwell said the new sculpture aligns strongly with Rotorua’s 2030 goals and priorities by contributing towards the inner city revitalisation as well as profiling our local creative community.

“It is about a city and district that is alive with music, storytelling, performance, galleries, sculpture, street art, theatres, murals and more. We are starting to get quite a reputation for our inner city artwork.

“Trevor (Nathan’s) sculpture is a worthy addition to Kuirau Park and to our district,” he said.

See earlier release re “Sponsorship boosts Kuirau Park Boulevard Gardens” and earlier release “Former mayor’s legacy funds Boulevard Gardens”

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