Art trail to put Whangarei on display

Artists, designers and writers have less than two weeks left to submit proposals for work to be displayed in a public art space at Whangarei's Town Basin.
The new artworks will be part of "a cohesive visual experience that celebrates the strength of the creative sector in Whangarei District," the sculpture walk organisers say.
Chart North chief executive Chris Carey is calling for artists of all genres to submit proposals and is encouraging submissions that will engage with the audience through storytelling, interactivity, and participation.
"Public art in this area will enhance our understanding of the area and its stories, celebrate the strength of the creative sector, and attract local and outside visitors. It will provide a colourful, vibrant and engaging experience for all."
Mr Carey and project co-ordinator Kara Dodson say the art trail, tentatively called the Public Art Space and likely to include 10 works, will link attractions the area already has and make the environment more user-friendly.
"The waterfront is one of our best assets but under-utilised, I feel, by the locals. This is yet another exciting facet to what will eventually be a great public space," Ms Dodson said.
Melbourne, Adelaide, Wellington and New Plymouth are among cities whose reputation for public sculpture and other art has brought economic benefits through tourism.
"It's great to have have those other examples to look at and learn from, very inspiring," Ms Dodson said. "Whangarei has the potential to be one of those cities with amazing public spaces. This is a step in the right direction ... if they can do it so can we."
Submitted designs will go through a rigorous selection process, with the first works hopefully in place by August, Mr Carey said.
The organisers are expecting strong local interest and would like artists from outside the district to also show a connection to the area.
"We have advertised nationally and submissions from further afield would be great but, if not, our abundance of excellent local talent can certainly handle the brief," Ms Dodson said.
The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 15. Full details can be found at www.chartnorth.com