Queens Wharf artwork divides the critics

The wharf sculpture, planned for Queens Wharf (right), is now to feature 10 small chandeliers in a Matariki constellation. Photo / Supplied

Opinions on revised lighthouse sculpture range from calling it impressive to labelling it a monstrosity and a joke

Art critics are impressed with the controversial $1.5 million "lighthouse' sculpture planned for Queens Wharf, but it has been labelled a monstrosity and joke by some members of the public.

The first public images of the sculpture by artist Michael Parekowhai have been released, based on a modest Mt Eden state house.

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Parekowhai has abandoned $705,000 plans for a Venetian crystal chandelier depicting a glowing garden of native flowers, birds and insects.

It will be replaced by 10 small chandeliers in a Matariki constellation, referencing the Maori New Year.

The budget has remained at $1.5 million, but private donations, including an original donation of $1 million from real estate firm Barfoot & Thompson, mean there is no longer any cost to ratepayers.

Herald arts editor Linda Herrick said the decision to replace the huge Venetian chandelier with 10 small chandeliers glowing in a Matariki constellation puts the work firmly in a Kiwi context.

She said the state house design was truly ironic as a homage to a public institution that is vanishing into history and would make an attractive addition to Queens Wharf.

Art critic Hamish Keith said the wharf was the wrong place for the sculpture, but Parekowhai was quite a remarkable artist. Mr Keith said he was not yet impressed by the lighthouse sculpture, "but you never know until you see the reality of what he does and his work usually takes you by surprise".

Hamish Keith.

John Gow, who owns the Connells Bay Sculpture Park on Waiheke Island, was thrilled by the sculpture, but confused about all the secrecy surrounding it since Barfoot & Thompson gifted $1 million in March 2013.

"As with any public sculpture there will always be supporters and detractors but at the end of the day they are monumental statements that support tourism.

"I hope it is lit up externally as well because it could be a really nice piece at night as well."

Barfoot & Thompson managing director Peter Thompson believed the sculpture would be a unique artwork and a drawcard.

But feedback to the Herald suggests some Aucklanders do not like the sculpture, especially its housing theme.

Meanwhile, the Waitemata Local Board and Waitemata and Gulf councillor Mike Lee want the public to have a say on the work's consent application.

Board chairman Shale Chambers said it blocks sea views, was in the wrong place on the "people's wharf" and people should be given a say.