Public art labs expected to prove popular

Dunedin (Tuesday, 10 April 2018) – The Dunedin City Council is launching two portable ‘Public Art Labs’ to ask residents what sort of public art they would like to see in the city and where it should go.

Each lab presents a large map of Dunedin and people are encouraged to put stickers on locations where they would like to see artworks installed. In addition, books, films and photographs give examples of visionary and successful public art projects from New Zealand and throughout the world to inspire the community to have their say on the types of projects they would like to see in the city.

Delivering a new public art framework was one of the 10 action points contained in Ara Toi Otepoti – Dunedin’s Arts and Culture Strategy – and is being headed by Dunedin Public Art Gallery Director Cam McCracken.

The labs are both inclusive and interactive so as to encourage as many people as possible to contribute their thoughts and ideas for a new public art programme for Dunedin.

Mr McCracken says, “We will take this information to help formulate ideas about five works which can be installed over the next 10 years. This strategic approach will ensure we get a great collection of artworks that we’re all proud of.”

So whether your vision is for a colourful, five-storey fountain in the centre of the harbour, an interactive child-friendly digital mural in the Octagon or a topiary sculpture garden on the peninsula… this is your chance to be heard!

The first Public Art Lab will be launched on Saturday, 14 April at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery with a second, at the Mosgiel Library, being launched in late April. They will be gathering feedback from the community for the next few months.

The second lab will move to different community spaces throughout the city to ensure that everyone has a chance to learn more and have their say.

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