Lead Artist Appointed

16 April 2012

Lead Artist Appointed

Manukau Institute of Technology is delighted to announce the appointment of Matthew von Sturmer as Lead Artist for the Manukau Tertiary Centre project.

Mr. von Sturmer was appointed to the role following a two-stage selection process.

Artists from across the Auckland region were invited to submit their work and proposals for the project.

“All members of the selection panel were excited by the potential of the concept put forward by Matthew and the panel’s recommendation was unanimous,” says Blair Johnson of Warren and Mahoney – lead architects for the MTC development.

The Lead Artist will consult and collaborate with the local community at a variety of levels in the design of the MTC building.

The engagement is a vital part of ensuring the involvement of the community in the overall design of the building.

“The Manukau tertiary Centre has a responsibility to reflect the values and aspirations of MIT while also providing an appropriate response to the cultural diversity of the Manukau community,” explains MIT Chief Executive Dr. Peter Brothers. “We believe Matthew will be able to bring these two elements together in a striking and contemporary way.”

The Lead Artist role is seen as fundamental to the success of the process, providing an interpretive link between the community and the campus through a wide range of artwork opportunities.

It’s a project Matthew von Sturmer is excited about.

“There is huge scope for a variety of art works to be incorporated into the project,” says Matthew. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to work with MIT, the local community and the design team to achieve a consistent and inclusive visual language across traditional art forms and the building itself.”

Mr. von Sturmer initially trained as a jeweller, but is now the creative force behind MVS Studio – a contemporary design centre. While he continues to develop and expand his own product range he also collaborates with architects, artist and iwi on private and public works.

The Manukau Tertiary Centre is a multi-million dollar campus in the heart of the Manukau CBD. In partnership with Auckland Transport and Auckland Council, this combination of education and transportation facilities will be unique in New Zealand and will represent a major opportunity for increasing participation in tertiary education by the people of Manukau and broader Auckland region.

The Manukau Tertiary Centre is scheduled to open 2013.

ENDS

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