New artwork at old Lake Rotoroa Shell station
Only days after beginning installation of their first major piece - 'Te Pumanawa O Te Whenua - Beat Connection' - philanthropic arts trust 'mesh' has started work on a second major gift to Hamilton.
The new piece, with the working title 'Arc', has been designed by Auckland-based artist Lonnie Hutchinson.
Arc will be situated on the site of the old Shell service station near the entrance to Lake Rotoroa, on Pembroke Street. The concept is based on Lonnie's response to the history of the lake and surrounding areas and its significance to Māori as a prime source of food and materials - a mahinga kai *.
The "Arc" is based on a gateway or waharoa structure. A waharoa in a traditional context is where the guests meet to be called on to the marae and the first threshold you pass through when you are welcomed onto the marae ātea. The three dimensional kōwhaiwhai design is a physical twist or manipulation of abstract forms referencing Lonnies corrugated signature cut-out works. The large scale of the kōwhaiwhai design with its twists, folds and large pod like fronds capture a pop art style attitude and aesthetic.
Made from Corten Steel - the piece will change colour over time which adding another element of interest.
The local community around the Lake have embraced the project with Hamilton West Primary School undertaking fundraising for the sculpture. The school has also used the piece as an opportunity to learn more about sculpture and the significance of the site and have recently held a competition to design what they think 'Arc' will look like.
As is the case with all of the pieces donated by mesh Arc has been privately funded by various individuals, corporates and charitable trusts.
* - Mahinga kai means literally working for your food, but the definition also refers to Māori values regarding the conservation of land and water.
